EA Sports Madden NFL 26 will be released in just under two weeks. Ahead of the launch, the video game developer has officially revealed the “99 Club” for the new game.
This season, the club has seven players, six of whom are on offense. The one defensive player featured recently signed a $160 million contract, solidifying his status as one of the best in the NFL.
$160 Million Superstar Tops Madden NFL 26 as Best Defensive Player
Madden ratings always spark debate online, but one thing fans agree on this year is EA’s choice for the top-ranked defensive player in Madden NFL 26.
Cleveland Browns pass rusher Myles Garrett is the only defensive player to make Madden’s prestigious 99 Club in this year’s edition, solidifying his status as the league’s top defensive player.
Introducing your official #Madden26 99 Club Class!
Sundays Start Early! 7 Days Early Access Begins 8/7*.
🔗: https://t.co/wxZXS8ajue | #Madden26Ratings pic.twitter.com/219voq3gW3— Madden NFL 26 (@EAMaddenNFL) July 28, 2025
Garrett joins Philadelphia Eagles RB Saquon Barkley, Baltimore Ravens QB Lamar Jackson, Eagles offensive lineman Lane Johnson, Minnesota Vikings WR Justin Jefferson, Cincinnati Bengals WR Ja’Marr Chase, and Buffalo Bills QB Josh Allen as this year’s 99 overalls.
Other defensive players could make a strong case for inclusion in the 99 Club, such as 2024-2025 Defensive Player of the Year Pat Surtain II or former DPOY T.J. Watt. However, there’s no denying that Garrett has earned his 99 overall rating.
Garrett has been a superstar since entering the league as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2017 NFL Draft. Over eight NFL seasons, he has recorded 102.5 sacks and earned four First-Team NFL All-Pro honors, two Second-Team All-Pro honors, and the 2023-2024 Defensive Player of the Year award.
MYLES GARRETT STRIP SACK LEADS TO BROWNS TD 🤯
UNBELIEVABLE.
(via @NFL)pic.twitter.com/mt3RG4WSfz
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) October 22, 2023
After recording his seventh consecutive season with double-digit sacks in 2024-2025, the Browns signed Garrett to a four-year, $160 million contract with $123.6 million guaranteed.
At the time, it made him the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history. He now adds a 99 overall rating to his résumé as well.
This marks Garrett’s second time in the Madden 99 club. His first came in Madden 23, and after earning the top rating again in Madden 26, the Browns star looks to keep dominating off the edge in Cleveland.
A Madden rating might not be a top priority for NFL players, but earning a 99 overall is still a sign of recognition and respect. It reflects a player’s dominance and gives them something to take pride in.
Madden NFL 26 will be released on August 14. Those who pre-order the deluxe edition will have early access beginning August 7.
