EA Developers

Dear Madden NFL Developers,

I’ve been playing Madden for over 20 years and wanted to share some feedback and suggestions after playing Madden 26, particularly in franchise mode.

Quarterback Play in Simulation

In Simulation mode, lower overall quarterbacks are playing far too well. There isn’t enough of a gap between elite quarterbacks (such as Patrick Mahomes) and rookies or mid-tier players (such as Baker Mayfield, Anthony Richardson, or Shedeur Sanders). Even lower-rated quarterbacks consistently make high-difficulty throws on the run or off their back foot. I believe quarterback ratings like awareness, throw power, and accuracy should have a greater impact so that elite quarterbacks feel truly special, while less experienced or average quarterbacks make more mistakes.

Defense vs. Offense Balance

Currently, games often feel tilted toward the offense, with very high scores being the norm. Cornerbacks rarely make plays on the ball, and the pass rush often doesn’t arrive quickly enough. Defensive adjustments here could make the balance more realistic and rewarding for players who value strategy.

Pass Rush Stunts (Texas 4 man)

Stunts are useful, but at present they can effectively stop both the pass and the run without any downside. In real football, looping defenders lose leverage and should be more vulnerable to inside or outside runs. Every scheme should have both strengths and weaknesses — for example, a stunt that helps pass rush should come with increased susceptibility to the run.

Final Note

Overall, I believe every feature in Madden should have both pros and cons. Strategy, ratings, and matchups should all play a larger role in determining outcomes, rather than certain plays or schemes being universally effective.

Thank you for your time and consideration. Madden is at its best when ratings matter, strategy matters, and the game feels authentic to the sport. I hope these suggestions help move Madden in that direction.