Perhaps the most groundbreaking inclusion is Bryce Underwood, the highly-touted freshman quarterback who recently enrolled at College Football 26 Coins Michigan. Underwood is the first true freshman ever featured on the cover of an EA Sports football title—a testament to how NIL and early enrollment are reshaping the identity of college athletes before they ever take a collegiate snap.

Currently holding the highest NIL valuation among all NCAA football freshmen—and second-highest among all college freshmen nationwide, only behind Duke basketball phenom Cooper Flagg—Underwood represents the next generation of marketable stars. His inclusion suggests that EA isn’t just betting on seasoned talent—they’re spotlighting future icons.

A Curious Absence: Where is Arch Manning?

Conspicuously missing from the artwork is Texas quarterback Arch Manning, the player with the highest NIL valuation in all of college sports. His absence raises eyebrows and questions: Was it a licensing issue? A strategic omission to stir discussion? Or perhaps a sign that Manning may be featured in another edition, such as a special Collector’s Edition cover?

Whatever the reason, fans immediately noticed the void, and speculation has only intensified. Some argue that leaving off college football’s most valuable athlete feels like a misstep. Others suggest EA may be deliberately leaving room for surprise reveals leading up to launch day.

Coaches Take Center Stage—A First for the Rebooted Franchise

Another major surprise: the inclusion of real-life coaches. Kirby Smart (Georgia), James Franklin (Penn State), and Kenny Dillingham (Arizona State) are clearly visible on buy CUT 26 Coins the Deluxe cover—marking the first time coaches have appeared in this rebooted series. Notably, College Football 25, the first title after an 11-year hiatus, did not feature any coaching staff.