MMOEXP-Madden NFL 26’s Biggest Rating Upgrades & Downgrades

Ratings Week is always one of the most highly anticipated events of the Madden NFL cycle. It‘s where speculation ends, debates begin, and players across the NFL either get the recognition they feel they deserve or find themselves with a chip on their shoulder heading into the season. Madden NFL 26 has wrapped up its official Ratings Week, and with it comes plenty of excitement, controversy, and Madden 26 coins a few surprises that will shape the game at launch.

This year, EA Sports not only revealed ratings for the game‘s top stars but also used Ratings Week as a showcase for new features, fresh Ultimate Team details, and even a reimagining of Superstar X-Factors. Here‘s a complete breakdown of the biggest takeaways.

Elite Quarterbacks Dominate the Spotlight

The quarterback race is always the headline act of Ratings Week, and Madden NFL 26 didn‘t disappoint. Unsurprisingly, Patrick Mahomes and Josh Allen topped the QB charts, each boasting strong overall ratings that highlight their arm strength, playmaking ability, and mobility.

But perhaps the biggest surprise was Joe Burrow‘s leap forward. Burrow cracked into the very top tier, signaling EA‘s confidence in his ability to continue challenging Mahomes for the crown. Meanwhile, veterans like Aaron Rodgers and Matthew Stafford saw noticeable declines, while rising stars like C.J. Stroud and Jordan Love gained attention with higher-than-expected ratings.

The biggest talking point, however, was Lamar Jackson‘s balance between speed and passing. EA seems to have given Jackson a more complete skill set in Madden 26, which could make him one of the most dangerous dual-threat QBs in the game‘s early meta.

Edge Rushers and Defensive Standouts Take Center Stage

While quarterbacks grab headlines, Ratings Week also spotlighted dominant defensive players. Myles Garrett, Micah Parsons, and Nick Bosa cemented their status as the premier edge rushers in Madden 26. Each player not only earned elite pass-rush ratings but also benefitted from new defensive animations that allow for smoother disengages, more realistic hand-fighting, and improved pursuit angles.

Parsons, in particular, saw a significant boost as EA leaned into his hybrid ability to rush the passer, drop into coverage, and wreak havoc in open space. Players looking to build a franchise or Ultimate Team defense around speed and disruption will find Parsons among the most valuable defensive anchors.

On the secondary side, Sauce Gardner continued his rise with lockdown coverage ratings, while Jalen Ramsey, though still strong, slipped slightly compared to past years. Madden 26 seems committed to rewarding defenders with size, speed, and ball skills, which could make press-man corners and rangy safeties far more important in this year‘s gameplay meta.

New Animations Add Fresh Gameplay Flavor

Ratings Week wasn‘t just about numbers—it was also EA‘s chance to show off new animations designed to make Madden 26 feel more fluid and lifelike. Quarterbacks now have expanded throwing mechanics, with situational animations for off-balance passes, side-arm flicks, and quick-release throws under pressure.

Running backs benefitted from reworked stiff arms, juke animations, and stumble recoveries, creating more opportunities for highlight plays. On defense, players will notice more dynamic pursuit animations, especially in open-field tackling. The changes may seem subtle on paper, but they‘re designed to make moment-to-moment gameplay feel less predictable and more authentic.

Ultimate Team: Rising Stars and Star Power

EA used Ratings Week to dive deeper into Madden Ultimate Team (MUT) for Madden 26, and one of the biggest announcements was the integration of Star Power tokens within the Rising Stars program. These collectibles give players more agency in powering up their favorite cards, whether that means chasing a 99 OVR player or flipping tokens for profit on the Auction House.

At launch, MUT will also feature an expanded pool of Core Elites, giving players more viable team-building options right out of the gate. Elite running backs like Derrick Henry and Jahmyr Gibbs bring diversity to early offensive builds, while top-tier defensive backs ensure competitive squads won‘t lack for coverage options.

Another important note: EA is leaning more into themed programs early this cycle, with clear upgrade paths and player evolutions designed to reward consistent play rather than just spending Madden Coins. This change could help balance the playing field and make MUT more rewarding for grinders.

Superstar X-Factors Reimagined

Perhaps the biggest philosophical change revealed during Ratings Week is the reimagining of Superstar X-Factors. For years, players have debated whether X-Factors provided too much of an arcade-like edge in what is supposed to be a simulation of the NFL. EA seems to have listened, introducing a more balanced system for Madden 26.

Now, X-Factors are tied more directly to situational success rather than being permanent game-changers once activated. For example, a wide receiver‘s “Double Me” ability will now trigger more dynamically based on matchups and coverage tendencies, rather than being a blanket boost once unlocked. Similarly, pass rush X-Factors will consider fatigue and snap count, adding another layer of realism to player performance.

The goal is clear: make X-Factors feel like an authentic extension of a player‘s skill set, not a gimmick that dominates gameplay. If executed well, this could be one of Madden 26‘s most meaningful gameplay shifts.

Reactions and Controversies

As always, Ratings Week sparked plenty of debate across social media. Fans of teams like the Lions and Texans were quick to point out perceived snubs for stars like Amon-Ra St. Brown and Nico Collins, while others argued that rookies like Caleb Williams were either overrated or underrated depending on their camp.

Player reactions also added fuel to the fire, with some NFL stars jokingly calling out EA for their “disrespect” while others leaned into their underdog status as motivation. The annual ratings debate is part of Madden culture at this point, and Madden 26 has already delivered plenty of material for fans to argue over.

Final Thoughts: A Strong Step Forward

With Ratings Week officially in the books, Madden NFL 26 looks poised to deliver one of the strongest launches in recent memory. Between refined player ratings, new animations, Ultimate Team innovations, and a smarter approach to Superstar X-Factors, EA seems committed to evolving the Madden formula in meaningful ways.

Of course, the true test will come when players get their hands on the game and see how these changes feel in action. But if Ratings Week is any indication,Madden nfl 26 coins could strike the balance between authenticity and fun that fans have been craving.