Which Tennessee Football Players Have the Highest Ratings in EA Sports College Football 2026?
Knoxville, TN
The wait is finally over, and EA Sports College Football 2026 has officially hit the shelves, sending shockwaves through the college football world and reigniting the passion of gamers and fans alike. For Tennessee Volunteers fans, the release is more than just about fancy graphics or smooth gameplay—it’s about seeing the Big Orange represented among the elite.
And guess what? The Vols didn’t disappoint.
From star quarterbacks to lockdown defenders, Tennessee has some serious heat in this year’s game, with several players making the upper echelons of the ratings chart. EA Sports worked closely with coaches, analysts, and game tape to determine player ratings, and it’s safe to say Rocky Top is getting some much-deserved respect.
Let’s break down the top-rated Tennessee players who are set to dominate your Dynasty Mode, Road to Glory campaigns, and online matchups.
1. QB Nico Iamaleava – 94 Overall
The face of Tennessee football and the pride of Knoxville, Nico Iamaleava comes in as the Vols’ highest-rated player—and for good reason. His cannon of an arm, elite pocket awareness, and ability to extend plays with his legs make him a dual-threat nightmare in the game. EA gave him top-tier throwing power (97), high football IQ ratings, and some slick agility numbers. Whether you’re slinging deep balls or running the option, Nico is your guy.
> “He’s built like a Madden superstar,” one EA developer said. “He’s got that Caleb Williams-Joe Milton type arm, but with smarter reads and smoother footwork.”
2. LT Jeremiah Crawford – 91 Overall
Holding down the blindside like a brick wall, Crawford gets a huge boost in this year’s game. With strength and pass-blocking in the mid-90s, he’s a must-have if you want time in the pocket to let plays develop. He’s not flashy, but he’s a grinder—and the game rewards that.
3. WR Bru McCoy – 90 Overall
Back and better than ever, McCoy is rated as one of the most physically dominant receivers in the SEC. With a solid 91 speed, 93 catching traffic, and 94 awareness, Bru is the perfect deep threat or possession guy. In-game, he’s the kind of player who goes up and snatches 50/50 balls like they’re nothing.
4. EDGE James Pearce Jr. – 89 Overall
Pearce is pure chaos off the edge. Whether it’s bull rushing the left tackle or dropping back in coverage, EA gave him elite versatility. He boasts a 92 finesse move rating and an 88 speed rating, making him a true force in the pass rush. Opposing QBs better get rid of that ball fast.
5. MLB Keenan Pili – 88 Overall
A veteran leader in the heart of the Vols’ defense, Pili is one of those guys who just seems to be everywhere on the field. His high play recognition and hit power make him a game-changer in the middle. EA gave him a strong 95 awareness, and he’s a turnover machine with his forced fumble rating sitting at 87.
Honorable Mentions:
DB Wesley Walker (86 OVR): A versatile safety who can play in the box or drop deep in zone coverage. Great speed and instincts.
RB Dylan Sampson (85 OVR): Quick, shifty, and sneaky strong. Perfect for outside runs and screen passes.
WR Squirrel White (85 OVR): The fastest guy on the roster. EA gave him a blazing 96 speed. He’s a human joystick on jet sweeps and kick returns.
What This Means for Tennessee Fans
For Vol Nation, these ratings are more than just numbers—they’re a reflection of the growing respect Tennessee is commanding on the national stage. After years of building and recruiting under Coach Josh Heupel, the program is starting to see its stars shine bright not just on Saturdays, but also in one of the most iconic sports games of all time.
Whether you’re a die-hard UT supporter, a Dynasty Mode junkie, or just here to throw bombs with Nico and rack up sacks with Pearce, EA Sports College Football 2026 is a dream come true. So grab that controller, load up Neyland Stadium, and get ready to hear “Rocky Top” ringing out through your speakers as you truck-stick your way to glory.
