Madden NFL 26 Update Brings Blocking Improvements and New Face Scans EA’s latest title update for Madden 26 fine-tunes blocking, adds fresh player likenesses, and fixes issues across multiple game modes

EA Sports has rolled out a major title update for Madden 26, addressing gameplay balance, visuals, and stability across multiple modes. From blocking tweaks to updated player likenesses, here’s everything new in the September 17 patch.

🏈 Gameplay Updates

Pass Blocking

New Coaching Adjustment options allow you to set default pass protection schemes (Base, Half/Full Left, Half/Full Right, Empty, Default).
Improved blocking logic on Shotgun Play Action plays.
Adjustments to pass rush move selection for more ratings-driven behavior.
Enhanced QB Contain logic for better edge defense.

Run Game

Fixed unrealistic speed boosts when trucking in open space.
Corrected mislabeled run plays (Duo now properly labeled).
Reduced frequency of overpowering sheds.
Edge defenders now hold their outside lanes longer to set the edge.

Passing Game

Increased minimum stem depth for routes to 3 yards.
Fixed issues with auto-motion receivers and “Quiet the Crowd.”
Addressed no-look passes triggering on quick throws.
Improved catch-knockout frequency in double coverage situations.

Pass Coverage

New coaching adjustment lets safeties play at 16 yards depth.
Hook defenders re-tuned to better cover short and intermediate routes.
Improved press animations and goal-line coverage logic.

Pre-Play Controls

Offenses can no longer instantly flip plays when walking to the line.
Standardized hot route timers across all QBs.
Fixed TE motion glitches in specific formations.

🎮 AI & Logic Fixes

Better AI clock management to avoid wasted timeouts.
Reduced excessive kick-meter wobble from Bills’ Homefield Advantage.
Fixed rare crashes tied to QB throw style settings.
Corrected roster bugs where players wore incorrect duplicate numbers.

🎥 Presentation & Visuals

Adjusted hit stick animations for small agile backs.
Fixed defenders warping back upright during tackles.
Corrected Josh Allen’s incorrect ball-carry style on read options.
Fixed camera issues in traditions like the Cardinals’ Big Red Siren.
Weekly Recap and Halftime Show logic tuned for more realistic highlights.

📚 Mode-Specific Fixes

Franchise Mode

Fixed draft class body type issues.
Corrected archetype OVR formulas (Nose Tackle).
Addressed injuries, depth chart reorder bugs, and coach ability unlock errors.

Superstar Mode

Adjusted QB Combine drills.
Fixed missing season stats and gear display issues.

Ultimate Team

Fixed Field Pass objective bugs and visual inconsistencies.
Improved lineup chemistry and substitution logic.
Corrected pack-opening UI and event progression blockers.

🎨 Art & Likeness Updates

This update also adds new player and coach scans, plus new cleats, facemasks, coach wristbands, and undershirts. Some of the notable updated faces include:

John Elway (LTD, Stanford QB)
Emeka Egbuka (Buccaneers WR)
Quinshon Judkins (Browns RB)
TreVeyon Henderson (Patriots RB)
Mike Tomlin (Steelers Head Coach)

Dozens of others across the league have also received updated likenesses.

🎧 Audio & UI Updates

Added new licensed music, including Limp Bizkit.
Fixed commentary misfires and stadium audio balance.
Corrected crashes tied to custom playbooks and halftime reports.
Expanded support for Korean currency on Switch 2.

✅ Final Thoughts

This Madden 26 title update refines core gameplay with smarter blocking, improved defensive depth, and cleaner animations, while also polishing Franchise, Superstar, and Ultimate Team. With dozens of new face scans and fixes across every mode, players can expect a smoother experience heading into Week 3 of the NFL season.