Saquon Barkley stars as cover athlete for Madden NFL 26
- Saquon Barkley achieved a single-season postseason rushing record of 2,504 yards.
- Barkley expressed gratitude for his teammates and fans, calling it a dream come true.
- His cover athlete announcement highlights his outstanding performance and historic achievements in the NFL.
In June 2025, Philadelphia, Eagles star running back Saquon Barkley was celebrated as the cover athlete for Madden NFL 26, as announced by EA Sports. Barkley's incredible achievements during the 2024 NFL season included setting a postseason total rushing yards record, surpassing the previous record held by Terrell Davis from 1998. During the regular season, he showcased extraordinary performance, leading the league with 2,005 rushing yards and earning the title of Offensive Player of the Year. His remarkable skills were highlighted by a memorable reverse hurdle play that not only captured the attention of fans but also solidified his status as one of the league's most electrifying athletes. The cover of the game not only features this iconic moment but also marks Barkley as the first offensive player from the Eagles to be included in the prestigious Madden 99 Club, which acknowledges players with a perfect 99 overall rating. Barkley expressed immense gratitude towards his teammates, coaches, and fans in his official remarks, emphasizing the significance of this achievement in his career. He stated, "Starring on the cover of Madden NFL 26 and being named to the Madden NFL '99 Club' are both dreams come true." In a historic context for the franchise, Barkley joins a select group of players to feature on the cover, becoming the second player in Eagles history after Donovan McNabb, who appeared on Madden NFL 06. The excitement surrounding Barkley's inclusion reflects the franchise's successful season, culminating in a Super Bowl victory. His contributions during games not only secured wins but also showcased his unique athleticism and creativity on the field, which will now be immortalized in the gaming world. The reveal of the game is set to happen soon, with the release date scheduled for August 14, 2025, allowing fans to pre-order the game across major gaming platforms. This announcement has collectively stirred anticipation among fans and Madden players, likely contributing to increased engagement with the franchise. The upcoming game is expected to replicate the spectacular moments displayed by Barkley during the season, offering gamers the chance to relive the electrifying plays that marked his breakout year.