Anticipation is building as the release of EA Sports College Football 26 approaches, with fans eager to see how their favorite teams and players are rated.
EA’s latest player ratings tease has sparked excitement, especially among Ohio State fans. With the game set to launch on July 10, the Buckeyes are making headlines for their strong presence in the top 100, reflecting their status as national champions and a favorite to repeat in 2025.
Ohio State Sets the Pace in College Football 26 Player Ratings
Unsurprisingly, the Ohio State Buckeyes dominate the early ratings for EA Sports College Football 26. As the reigning national champions and with several top players returning for the 2025 season, head coach Ryan Day’s squad is widely expected to contend for another title.
The top 100 player ratings for College Football 26, released ahead of the July 10 launch, show Ohio State leading the way. The game’s two highest-rated players both suit up in Columbus, setting a high bar for the rest of college football as the new season approaches.
The two highest-rated players in CFB 26 belong to Ohio State 💪🌰
Jeremiah Smith: 98 overall
Caleb Downs: 96 overall@EASPORTSCollege | @OhioStateFB pic.twitter.com/Lt6e2hqGll— FOX College Football (@CFBONFOX) July 1, 2025
The top-ranked player in College Football 26 is wide receiver Jeremiah Smith, who enters the game with a launch rating of 98. All of his receiving stats are graded above 95, underscoring his reputation as one of the nation’s most dynamic playmakers.
Close behind Smith is safety Caleb Downs, who debuts with a 96 overall rating. Downs is widely regarded as the top defender in college football, and his high rating in the game reflects that reputation.
Along with his defensive skills, Downs is also known for his ability as a punt returner. While his return statistics for the 2024 season at Ohio State have not been confirmed, his versatility continues to impress both fans and game developers, earning him a strong kick return rating in College Football 26.
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Ohio State’s depth is further highlighted by the presence of two more Buckeyes in the game’s top 100. Wide receiver Carnell Tate is ranked as the seventh-best receiver, entering with a 91 overall rating. Tate is expected to take on a bigger role in the offense this season.
Tight end Max Klare also makes the top 100, ranked third at his position with a 91 overall rating. The 6’4”, 236-pound tight end transferred to Columbus for the 2025 season after recording 51 receptions for 685 yards and four touchdowns with Purdue in 2024.
With four players in the top 100, Ohio State’s roster strength is clear. The Buckeyes’ dominance in College Football 26’s ratings matches the expectations for another strong season on the field.
Fans will get an opportunity to play as Smith, Downs, and the rest of the Buckeyes on Thursday, July 10. Those who preordered the game will have three days of early access, beginning on Monday, July 7.
