EA Sports College Football 26 will feature the name, image, and likeness of current players, who will be generously compensated for their participation in the game. Emails were sent out to current college football players to confirm their inclusion in the game, with players set to receive a deluxe edition of the game and a payment of $1,500 if they accept. This payment represents a significant increase from the previous installment of the franchise.
Last year, players with their likeness in the game received a deluxe copy and $600. EA Sports has high expectations for the future of the franchise and aims to ensure fair compensation for athletes participating in College Football 26. The company expressed pride in prioritizing fairness, inclusion, and acknowledging athletes’ talent and dedication in an email obtained by USA TODAY Sports.
There was substantial enthusiasm from college football players to be part of the last edition, with over 11,000 players included in College Football 25. A similar number or more are anticipated for the upcoming installment, with additional promotional opportunities for athletes to earn more NIL payments. The deal is done through the COMPASS NIL app, and payments will be distributed on July 1.
Players can choose to opt-out of the deal, but those who were part of the 2024 version will automatically be included and receive the NIL payment unless they opt-out. EA Sports is focused on continuing to prioritize athletes as they bring them into College Football 26 and future iterations of the game.
The release date for EA Sports College Football 26 has not been announced, but historical trends indicate a mid-July release. The previous installment, College Football 25, was released on July 19, with early access available on July 15. The game’s return in 2024 after an 11-year hiatus was well-received, with College Football 25 becoming the top-selling video game of the year and the best-selling sports game in U.S. history.
(Source: USA TODAY Sports)
