EA Sports CFB 26 Is Coming in Hot: Release Date, Features, and Yes, Metallica Is Involved

Mark your calendars and warm up those consoles, EA Sports College Football 26 (CFB 26) officially drops on July 10, 2025, and if you’re pre-ordering the Deluxe Edition or MVP Bundle, you’ll be suiting up as early as July 7.

First off, no PC version, again. Just like past iterations, EA’s sticking to console-only. But if you’re on PlayStation or Xbox, get ready for some big upgrades, and a few unexpected crossovers.

So, What’s New in CFB 26?

Road to Glory just got a glow-up, you’ll now start your football journey all the way back in high school. Yep, that classic grind from high school star to college legend is back, and fans are already hyped about it.

In another major upgrade, real-life coaches are finally in the game. No more generic sideline imposters. This move brings more authenticity and immersion to every play, especially for dynasty mode junkies.

Three cover athletes are expected, though EA hasn’t dropped the names yet. Expect the full reveal to go live in May, but rumors are already swirling, yes, Travis Hunter is heavily in the conversation.

Speaking of Travis Hunter, if you pre-order, you’ll score a 99 OVR Travis Hunter card, usable in both CFB 26 and Madden NFL 26. That’s some serious crossover clout.

A Score Bug That Looks Better (Finally)

One of the most noticeable aesthetic upgrades? A new score bug (aka the scoreboard overlay), which sounds like a small thing until you realize how much screen time it gets. EA’s calling this part of a broader push to bring broadcast-style polish to gameplay.

Lowe’s and Metallica. Yes, Really.

In the most unexpected partnership reveal yet, EA has teamed up with Lowe’s and Metallica for in-game features. Lowe’s is expected to be part of stadium enhancements and branding, while Metallica’s music will apparently feature throughout the menus and possibly in-game hype packages. So, your Road to Glory might now be soundtracked by “Enter Sandman.” Not mad at it.

No PC Port, Again

Let’s get this out of the way: PC players are once again left out. It’s become an annual complaint, and EA hasn’t budged. The franchise remains console-exclusive, at least for this year.

TL;DR:

• Release Date: July 10, 2025
• Early Access: July 7 (Deluxe & MVP only)
• Platforms: Console-only (no PC)
• Major Features:
  • Road to Glory starts in high school
  • Real coaches included
  • 3 different cover athletes
  • New UI and score bug
  • Metallica music collab
  • Lowe’s stadium branding
  • Pre-order bonus: 99 OVR Travis Hunter

Whether you’re in it for dynasty, online play, or just building a five-star QB from scratch, EA Sports CFB 26 is shaping up to be the most loaded college football title in years. The countdown is on.

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Ethan Cross

Tech Journalist and Analyst at T.H.E - Music Essentials

Ethan Cross is a tech journalist and analyst with a passion for gaming, AI, and emerging innovations. With years of experience covering hardware, software, and industry trends, he breaks down complex tech topics into engaging, accessible insights. Whether it's the latest gaming hardware, smartphone innovations, AI breakthroughs, or startup disruptions, Ethan delivers sharp, in-depth coverage that keeps readers ahead of the curve. His expertise spans gaming reviews, software updates, blockchain, and industry shake-ups, ensuring that no major tech development goes unnoticed.

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