Although exploring games from other genres, such as Apex Legends, understandably appeals to gamers, there are large populations of players who can’t resist the opportunity to play as their heroes in titles like Madden 26. An iconic series, it’s an excellent game for numerous reasons. But which franchises are the strongest?

For players looking to take down any online rivals and silence loved ones, battles featuring the biggest and best teams tend to serve up the most drama, given the array of weapons they have all over the field. In the same way that fans tend to select major stars like Patrick Mahomes as their fantasy picks and back sides like the Patriots to come out on top in their next encounter when it comes to NFL online betting, there are some franchises that are known to possess a range of world-class operators. However, there are also some surprises in the game that are more formidable than they have been in real life in recent times.

So, without further ado, below is a brief lowdown on the strongest teams to play as in Madden NFL 26.

Baltimore Ravens

An NFL team that is hardly surprising to see near the top of the rankings, the Baltimore Ravens possess a number of star players, including having nine professional football players who are rated 90 or over in the game. While his injury issues have been a concern, Lamar Jackson is the star of the show, although the Ravens have a number of top players, with the likes of Derrick Henry and Roquan Smith being two other phenomenal talents in the title. A side every gamer wants to play as, the Baltimore Ravens are a formidable opponent.

;

Philadelphia Eagles

When looking at their all-around roster of players to choose from, the Philadelphia Eagles’ inclusion near the top of the ratings makes a lot of sense. Not only does the team boast arguably the finest offense in the game thanks to dangerous presences like Lane Johnson, but the reigning champions are lucky to have a variety of other reliable performers to call upon, including Saquon Barkley, Jordan Mailata, and AJ Brown. With a number of players rated 90 or over, the Philadelphia Eagles rarely roll over easily.

Kansas City Chiefs

While Patrick Mahomes is the biggest star of the team when the Kansas City Chiefs take to the field in the real world, he isn’t actually their highest-rated player in the game. That honor went to Chris Jones (97), with the phenomenal quarterback coming in just behind at 95. Trent McDuffie and Creed Humphrey are two other top-notch players who are capable of delivering in the biggest of moments for a team with an array of notable heroes.

Buffalo Bills

Next up is the Buffalo Bills, a side with another star quarterback in the shape of Josh Allen. While Allen is the team’s undoubted hero, they’re a side with a well-rounded roster when assessing their overall team. A popular pick for players who tackle franchise mode, the Bills arguably have the most stacked and balanced squad of players in the whole competition, although Josh Allen is a key cog in their wheel. Should you manage to stifle him, then a triumph is likely. Still, overall, playing as the Buffalo Bills is a lot of fun.

Minnesota Vikings

Finally, we have the Minnesota Vikings, although they do share the same 88 overall rating with the Detroit Lions. However, for many Madden gamers, the Vikings just edge it due to Justin Jefferson’s 99 rating.