DJ McKinney looked at his 89 overall rating in EA Sports College Football 26 and felt something was missing. The Colorado cornerback appreciates the number but knows he’s capable of more.
With Travis Hunter gone and the Buffaloes needing a new defensive leader, McKinney’s virtual rating might be the least of his concerns.
Why Isn’t Colorado CB DJ McKinney Satisfied With His 89 Rating in EA Sports College Football 26?
Colorado cornerback DJ McKinney received an 89 overall rating in the newly released EA Sports College Football 26, a mark that reflects his status as a rising star in the Buffaloes’Â defense. Still, McKinney wasn’t entirely satisfied with the number.
“I’m not satisfied, but I like my rating this year. No cap. I think it’s a good rating for sure,” he said in an interview with SeeHendo. “It definitely, as the season progresses, is going to go up.”
McKinney is expected to step into a major role in 2025, filling the void left by Travis Hunter as Colorado’s top coverage corner. His speed rating of 91 reinforces his potential to become an elite player on the national stage. His expectations, both for himself and his performance, remain high. As he put it, “Come on, man. You [sic] going to turn up.”
What Changes Does McKinney Praise in College Football 26?
Beyond his rating concerns, the Buffaloes standout praised EA Sports for refining the gameplay in this year’s edition.
“I think it’s a lot more fluid than last year,” McKinney said while testing the game. “It’s always fun playing as yourself in the game.”
That experience, he added, carries lasting significance.
“I never would have dreamed about this until, like, maybe I got into the league and I’m on the Madden game. But to be on a game in college, you know, it’s amazing for real. This is a game that’s going to be out forever. So, my kids’ legacy, man. They [sic] kids’ kids can play the game.”
As the team’s new defensive anchor, McKinney’s presence in the game goes beyond ratings. He also appreciates the attention to detail this year, especially in terms of gear.
“I’m definitely going [with] my double sleeve, and then I got to have my streamer towel,” he said. “This year, I think I’mma actually wear a mouthpiece in. I’m wearing the visor this year, too.”
How Has Deion Sanders Shaped McKinney’s Development?
Much of McKinney’s development has been shaped by head coach Deion Sanders, someone he grew up admiring.
“He was one of the main reasons that I came to Colorado,” McKinney said. “Just him being a Hall of Famer, him being in this position, and then excelling at the next level, it just made sense.”
Reflecting on teammates like Hunter and quarterback Shedeur Sanders, McKinney noted, “Going back to practice, it was just elite going against both of them.”
He called Travis “a true unicorn,” and said he’s known that Shedeur Sanders was “an elite passer” since high school.
In 2024, DJ McKinney recorded 43 solo tackles, eight pass deflections, three interceptions for 41 yards, one forced fumble, and one touchdown. He also added one passing touchdown, showing his impact extends beyond just defense for Colorado.
