Ryan Williams & Jeremiah Smith: The Stars of EA Sports College Football 26

The Next Generation of College Football Icons

The highly anticipated EA Sports College Football 26 has locked in its cover athletes, and the spotlight shines brightly on two of the most electrifying players in the game—Ryan Williams (Alabama) and Jeremiah Smith (Ohio State). Following a stellar 2024 season, these sophomore wide receivers have earned their place among the elite, securing a spot in video game history.

Their selection reinforces EA Sports' commitment to showcasing young talent, marking the continuation of the beloved franchise’s revival after an 11-year hiatus. With last year’s edition ranking among the best-selling video games of 2024, expectations for the upcoming installment are sky-high.

A “Dream Come True” for the Players

Both athletes expressed immense pride in representing their programs on the game’s cover. Williams shared, “This is a dream come true,” while Smith called the opportunity “a tremendous privilege.”

Smith emphasized the importance of carrying the Buckeye legacy forward, honoring Ohio State’s tradition while celebrating the passionate fan base that fuels the team’s dominance.

Their Path to National Recognition

Williams and Smith burst onto the national stage in 2024 with unforgettable performances that solidified their reputations as game-changing players.

Ryan Williams (Alabama)

Williams stunned audiences with his spinning TD grab against then-No. 2 Georgia, a play so spectacular it felt scripted for a video game. His freshman season was filled with game-defining moments, accumulating:

• 48 receptions

• 865 yards

• 8 receiving touchdowns

Jeremiah Smith (Ohio State)

Smith was instrumental in Ohio State’s national championship run, routinely making impossible one-handed catches. In the College Football Playoff quarterfinals against top-seeded Oregon, he delivered:

• 7 receptions

• 187 yards

• 2 touchdowns

By the end of his freshman season, Smith had amassed:

• 76 catches

• 1,315 yards

• 15 receiving touchdowns

What’s New in College Football 26?

The standard edition cover features Williams and Smith in a dynamic pose, cementing their status as rising superstars. Meanwhile, the deluxe edition cover honors past legends like Reggie Bush, Tim Tebow, and Denard Robinson, alongside various players, coaches, and team mascots.

This year’s release is set to test whether EA Sports can continue its momentum from last year and maintain its status as one of gaming’s biggest annual traditions.

Final Thoughts: The Future of the Franchise

With College Football 26, EA Sports is sending a strong message—the next generation of talent is ready to take over. Williams and Smith are not just names on a cover; they are embodying the future of college football, and fans can expect to see their legendary plays recreated in digital form when the game launches.

Are you excited for the newest edition of EA Sports College Football? Who do you think will be the breakout stars of the upcoming season? Join the conversation below!