“EA Sports College Football 25” will feature current college football players as cover athletes, with multiple versions featuring players from the four power conferences. This marks a departure from previous iterations of the game, where former college stars were typically chosen due to restrictions on college athletes profiting from their name and likeness. Speculation about potential cover athletes includes current college football players like Lamar Jackson, Joe Burrow, DeVonta Smith, and Trevor Lawrence, as well as legends of the sport like Nick Saban. Colorado’s Shedeur Sanders and Travis Hunter are also mentioned as potential candidates, with the possibility of them posing alongside their coach Deion Sanders.
In terms of gameplay, all 134 FBS schools have agreed to join “College Football 25,” with over 10,000 players already agreeing to be included in the game through name, image, and likeness (NIL) deals. Notable exceptions include Texas’ Arch Manning, who reportedly declined the $600 offer from EA Sports. The reconfigured 12-team College Football Playoff, bowl games, and the Heisman Trophy will all be part of the game. However, the National College Football Awards Association declined to allow its awards to appear in the game. It is unclear if cover athletes will receive any extra compensation for appearing on the cover.
EA Sports is expected to reveal more details about “College Football 25” in May, with a release planned for July. The game is highly anticipated following a 10-year hiatus, with fans eager to see how it will embrace the current era of college football. The inclusion of current college players as cover athletes adds a new level of excitement and authenticity to the game. With the support of FBS schools and players through NIL agreements, the game promises to include a wide array of teams and players, providing a rich and immersive experience for fans of college football.
The decision to feature current college players on the cover reflects a shift in the landscape of college sports and the evolving rules regarding name, image, and likeness rights for athletes. This move also allows EA Sports to showcase the talent and star power of current college athletes, highlighting their contributions to the sport. The speculation surrounding potential cover athletes adds to the anticipation and excitement surrounding the release of “College Football 25.” Fans are eager to see which players will be chosen to represent the game and how their presence will enhance the overall gaming experience.
Overall, “EA Sports College Football 25” promises to be a groundbreaking release that captures the spirit and excitement of college football. With a focus on current college players as cover athletes and a robust lineup of teams and players, the game aims to provide a comprehensive and immersive experience for fans. As more details are revealed in the coming months, anticipation continues to build for the game’s release in July. Fans of college football can look forward to enjoying a cutting-edge gaming experience that celebrates the sport and its players in a new and exciting way.
