After an 11-year hiatus, college football fans rejoice as the NCAA Football franchise returns under the new nameEA Sports College Football.This highly anticipated game immerses players in the heart of college athletics, allowing them to control the destiny of their favorite teams and guide them to gridiron glory. Among the numerous players featured in the game, some stand out as exceptional talents with the potential to become future NFL stars.
These players, recognized for their outstanding skills and contributions to their teams, are often rated higher than their peers due to their demonstrated abilities and the impact they have on the game. This dynamic adds depth and strategy to the gameplay, providing fans with an even richer and more engaging experience.
10Tate Ratledge
Overall: 95
A cornerstone of Georgia’s offensive line,Tate Ratledge is widely regarded as one of the best guards in college football.At 6'6" and 315 pounds, the junior from Georgia showcases an imposing physical presence combined with exceptional technique and football IQ. His unwavering presence on the line of scrimmage is crucial for protecting the quarterback and creating lanes for the Bulldogs' potent rushing attack.
Ratledge’s blend of strength and agility makes him a formidable opponent and a key factor in Georgia’s continued success. His contributions will be essential as the Bulldogs strive to maintain their dominance in the SEC and beyond this season.
9Quinshon Judkins
Following two stellar seasons at Ole Miss, Quinshon Judkins has joined the ranks of the Ohio State Buckeyes. The 6'0" running back has amassed 34 touchdowns over the past two seasons, and despite a slight dip in production last year,he remains one of the most explosive offensive players in college football. His integration into a team already brimming with playmakers is poised to elevate his game to even greater heights.
Judkins' explosive combination of speed and agility makes him a constant threat to opposing defenses. His presence promises to significantly bolster Ohio State’s rushing attack, making them an even more formidable force in the Big Ten Conference. As one of the cover athletes forEA Sports College Football 25, Judkins' status as a rising star in college football is undeniable.
8Mason Graham
Despite the spotlight often shining on Michigan’s offensive stars,defensive tackle Mason Graham has made a significant impact that has not gone unnoticed.Standing at 6'3" and weighing in at 300 pounds, Graham has quietly been a force to be reckoned with, even though his stats from last season show only three sacks. His presence is vital to the team’s defensive front, consistently demonstrating his skills on the field.
Graham’s high ranking among interior defensive tackles is a testament to his undeniable talent. Recognized as a Preseason All-American both in real life and inEA Sports College Football 25, he stands out as a difference-maker. His ability to shed double teams and pressure the quarterback is a rare trait, solidifying his position as one of the top defenders heading into this season.
7Malaki Starks
The second Georgia player to grace the top 10, Malaki Starks has emerged as a strong contender for the NFL Draft despite having one more season of college eligibility remaining.Recruited as a 5-star prospect and one of the most highly sought-after players in the 2020 class, Starks has lived up to the hype. In 2022, he amassed 52 tackles and three interceptions, showcasing his playmaking ability and impact on the field.
While not the top-rated safety inEA Sports College Football 25, Starks has undoubtedly earned his place among the elite. His presence is easily recognized both in-game and in reality, as he is a crucial component of Georgia’s stifling defense. His performance last season was instrumental in the team’s consistent showing, even amidst challenges faced in the latter part of the year.
6Travis Hunter
One of the most dynamic players in college football, Travis Hunter began his career at Jacksonville State before transferring to Colorado under the guidance of Coach Deion Sanders. Hunter quickly established himself as a standout performer on both sides of the ball, showcasing exceptional skills as both a cornerback and a wide receiver.
Although a 2023 injury temporarily sidelined him, his impressive abilities remain unquestioned. Many believe he deserves an even higher ranking due to his significant impact on both offense and defense. Hunter has proven to be an essential piece for the Colorado Buffaloes, solidifying his reputation as one of the most prominent inCollege Football.
5Caleb Downs
Caleb Downs defied the odds as one of the few true freshmen to shine under Nick Saban’s demanding coaching style at Alabama. He quickly established himself as a standout player, earning praise for his exceptional skills and instincts. Now, as the highest-rated sophomore inEA Sports College Football 25, Downs has transferred to Ohio State following Saban’s retirement, bringing his talents to the Buckeyes' defense.
In his freshman campaign, Downs led Alabama with 107 tackles, intercepted two passes, and even returned a punt for a touchdown. With his versatility and explosive playmaking ability, Ohio State is expected to find creative ways to utilize his talents on both offense and special teams, making him a truly dynamic weapon.
4James Pearce Jr.
At 243 pounds, Tennessee’s James Pearce Jr. is the highest-rated defensive lineman in the game, renowned for his exceptional pass-rushing skills. In his sophomore season, he recorded an impressive 18 solo tackles, 9.5 sacks, two forced fumbles, and an interception, showcasing his potential for even greater numbers in the upcoming season if he can stay healthy.
While his high ranking might seem somewhat based on hype,Pearce Jr. has undeniably backed it up with his production on the field.Possessing elite athleticism, he is projected as a potential number-one overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. His explosive first step and ability to power through double teams make him a constant threat to opposing offensive lines.
3Ollie Gordon II
Overall: 96
If you’re looking for a player who can instantly ignite an offense, Ollie Gordon II is your man. Considered the best running back in college football, the 211-pound junior amassed an impressive 1,732 yards and 21 touchdowns last season, solidifying his status as one of the game’s premier playmakers.
In 2023, Gordon carried the ball 285 times for 6.1 yards per carry, totaling 1,732 yards and 19 touchdowns. He also contributed significantly in the passing game with 39 receptions for 330 yards and three touchdowns, finishing the season with 2,062 total yards and 22 touchdowns. Despite facing off-field challenges, his undeniable talent makes him a constant threat inEA Sports College Football 25.
2Will Campbell
Since arriving in Baton Rouge, Will Campbell has exceeded all expectations at LSU. A highly-touted recruit in the 2022 class, Campbell seamlessly transitioned into the starting left tackle role as a true freshman and hasn’t looked back. In his sophomore season, he achieved the remarkable feat of not allowing a single sack in 15 consecutive games, demonstrating his exceptional durability and consistency.
At 6'6" and 320 pounds, Campbell possesses a rare combination of size and athleticism. His presence was instrumental in LSU’s offensive success last season.While his ranking as the second overall player in the game is a testament to his talent, many consider him the best player in college football today. As a junior, Campbell continues to elevate his game, solidifying his status as one of the nation’s top athletes.
1Will Johnson
Since stepping onto the field for Michigan, Will Johnson has emerged as a rising star. As a cornerback, he quickly became a cornerstone of the national championship-winning defense.Despite quarterbacks often avoiding his side of the field, Johnson managed to intercept four passes last season, highlighting his impact on the game.
Standing at 6'2" and weighing 202 pounds, Johnson possesses elite size and skills, making him the top-rated defender inEA Sports College Football 25. In 2023, he recorded 27 tackles and returned his four interceptions for 80 yards, including one touchdown. His consistent performance and undeniable talent make him a strong contender for the 2025 NFL Draft, further solidifying his importance to Michigan’s success.
