The leaked photos appear to College Football 26 Coins feature some of the most recognizable young talent in the sport: DJ Lagway from the University of Florida, Alabama’s Ryan Williams, and Jeremiah Smith of Ohio State. The shoot didn’t stop with just players, either. Several prominent college football coaches and beloved mascots were also present, suggesting that EA is leaning heavily into authenticity and nostalgia for this installment.

Behind the Leak: Who’s In and Why It Matters

The information came to light through a report by Anthony Miller on Sports Illustrated, which cited photos and social media buzz surrounding the shoot. Miller’s article included tweets from trusted college football insiders like Hayes Fawcett, who claimed that the event was indeed linked to promotional material for the upcoming game. Fans quickly connected the dots and concluded that this wasn’t just another media day—it was EA’s official photo session for College Football 26.

For many fans, the inclusion of DJ Lagway, Ryan Williams, and Jeremiah Smith on the supposed cover is a nod to the future of the sport. These players have generated buzz on and off the field, and their selection represents EA’s interest in highlighting the next generation of stars. This also marks a change in how EA handles cover athletes—leaning toward breakout talent rather than established veterans.

From Hiatus to Hype: The Road to College Football 26

EA’s college football series has a storied legacy, originally launching in 1998 under the title Bill Walsh College Football. It evolved into the NCAA Football franchise before going on hiatus after NCAA Football 14. Legal issues over the use of player likenesses forced EA to shelve the series, but the landscape has since changed dramatically with the introduction of NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) policies.

In January, EA officially announced the return of the series, confirming that College Football 26 would follow the blockbuster success of College Football 25. That earlier entry saw more than 10,000 players sign NIL deals, legitimizing their inclusion in the game. The move helped set a precedent, transforming how college athletes are represented in digital media and offering new financial opportunities for College Football 26 Coins for sale student-athletes.