Texas A&M Football Coaches Make Surprising Debut in College Football 26 — What This Means for the Game!

After an 11-year hiatus that left countless fans craving a true college football gaming experience, EA Sports has finally stepped back into the ring. The beloved franchise, which disappeared amid the complexities of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) regulations, made a triumphant return in the summer of 2025 with College Football 25. Since its July debut, the game has sold millions, signaling a roaring comeback. Now, with College Football 26 on the horizon, EA is raising the stakes by featuring the likenesses of over 300 coaches — a lineup that includes Texas A&M’s own Mike Elko, Collin Klein, and Jay Bateman. This move not only elevates the realism but also adds a fresh layer of strategy and authenticity, especially as the Maroon & White gear up for a pivotal season. For anyone passionate about college football or gaming, this release promises to be a game-changer in every sense. LEARN MORE

Within the game, coaches who agreed to participate will be seen on the sideline with playbooks highly similar to the scheme for each team, and in Dynasty mode, coaches can be selected to lead a specific program, which is another exciting feature that will breed plenty of creativity for longtime users of the game.Thanks to GigEm247’s Carter Karels, here’s how EA Sports is incorporating the likenesses of over 300 coaches to enhance the game plan from a realistic standpoint.After 11 years, the massive fan base of the former NCAA Football video game franchise disappeared due to various issues related to what we now call Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL). However, during the summer of 2025, EA Sports released its first installment since 2013, renamed College Football 25.

“EA Sports released its official reveal trailer for the game Thursday and announced more than 300 current college football coaches – including assistants – agreed to have their likeness featured in addition to various players. It will mark the first time the game has ever incorporated real-life coaches in that way.”

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Selling millions of copies since its July release, the franchise is back in complete form, as College Football 26 looks to improve in several areas and will now include the likenesses of several high-profile coaches, including Texas A&M head coach Mike Elko, offensive coordinator Collin Klein, and defensive coordinator Jay Bateman. This is no surprise given the importance of the 2025 season for the Maroon & White.

College Football 26 will be released worldwide on Thursday, July 10.