Even mascots and legends like Tim Tebow, Reggie Bush, and Mark Ingram were featured, signaling EA’s effort to make College Football 26 both nostalgic and College Football 26 Coins contemporary.

Given Texas’ elite status, the absence of Sarkisian and Manning from any of the cover variants—deluxe, legend, or coaches editions—is notable. Insiders had expected at least one of them, especially Manning, whose famous family name alone makes him marketing gold.

A Different Kind of NIL Decision

Players featured in College Football 25 received $600 and a free copy of the game for allowing EA to use their name, image, and likeness (NIL). While modest by professional sports standards, it was a milestone for college athletes. For College Football 26, EA is reportedly doubling that amount, according to The Athletic’s Chris Vannini.

In a college football era increasingly driven by NIL, it's interesting to see two of the game's most marketable figures turn down a guaranteed payday. Manning, whose NIL valuation already places him among the highest in the NCAA, doesn’t need the exposure or the check. Sarkisian, focused on coaching one of the sport's top programs, has shown time and again that he values preparation over promotional fluff.

Their absence is not a snub to EA but a sign of shifting values in college sports. As NIL continues to reshape the landscape, not every opportunity needs to be seized—especially when the ultimate prize lies on the field, not in a photoshoot.

Looking Ahead to the 2025 Season

Arch Manning enters the upcoming season with sky-high expectations. As the likely starter, he’ll lead a Texas offense that’s been carefully retooled by Sarkisian for explosiveness and efficiency. With Texas now fully transitioned into the SEC, the spotlight on Manning will only intensify. How he handles the pressure, and whether he can live up to cheap College Football 26 Coins the Manning name, could define the Longhorns’ national championship hopes.