As the excitement builds for the release of College Football 26 this July, fans are eagerly anticipating not just the gameplay, but also the cover stars representing their favorite programs. EA Sports always brings the heat with this iconic series, and for those diving into the game, especially using College Football 26 Coins to unlock content, one of the most fun debates is imagining the ideal cover athlete for each team. Here's a breakdown of which Big 12 player would best represent their school on the cover.
Arizona Wildcats – Noah Fifita, QB
Noah Fifita stands out as one of the most electrifying dual-threat quarterbacks in college football. After a stellar sophomore season, he's poised to elevate Arizona's offense to new heights in 2025. Fifita's leadership and versatility make him an easy pick for the Wildcats' digital cover.
Arizona State Sun Devils – Sam Leavitt, QB
With Cam Skattebo off to the pros, Sam Leavitt now holds the keys to the Arizona State offense. After flashing potential last season, Leavitt is expected to take a major leap forward and become the centerpiece of the Sun Devils' attack.
BYU Cougars – Jake Retzlaff, QB
Jake Retzlaff's emergence last season was one of the biggest surprises in the Big 12. Taking the reins at BYU, he showed the ability to lead a Power Four offense. His gritty play and upside make him the face of Cougar football heading into the season.
Baylor Bears – Bryson Washington, RB
Baylor's offensive engine, Bryson Washington, put up monster numbers in 2024—over 1,000 yards and 12 touchdowns on the ground. As the Bears lean on him even more in 2025, he's a prime candidate for a cover slot, especially for fans using College Football 26 Coins to highlight top offensive stars.
Cincinnati Bearcats – Brenden Sorsby, QB
Although Cincinnati is in the midst of a rebuild, Brenden Sorsby brings stability under center. After throwing for 2,800 yards and 18 touchdowns, he's the Bearcats' best returning talent and a logical choice to represent the program.
Colorado Buffaloes – Kaidon Salter, QB
The Buffaloes' offense loses Shedeur Sanders, but gains an explosive dual-threat quarterback in Kaidon Salter via the transfer portal. Salter's dynamic style, honed at Liberty, should energize Colorado fans and players alike in College Football 26.
Houston Cougars – Tanner Koziol, TE
Houston doesn't have a deep roster of returning stars, but the addition of tight end Tanner Koziol is a game-changer. With 839 receiving yards at Ball State last season, Koziol could dominate in the Big 12 and become a fan favorite among College Football 26 Coins users looking for unique offensive weapons.
Iowa State Cyclones – Rocco Becht, QB
Rocco Becht has consistently produced for Iowa State, throwing for over 3,500 yards and 25 touchdowns in 2024. With key receivers moving on, Becht becomes the unquestioned leader of the offense and the face of the program.
Kansas Jayhawks – Jalon Daniels, QB
Returning for one final season, Jalon Daniels is Kansas' undisputed star, especially with Devin Neal gone. His playmaking ability and loyalty to the program make him the ideal digital ambassador for the Jayhawks.
Kansas State Wildcats – Avery Johnson, QB
Avery Johnson turned heads with over 3,300 total yards and 32 touchdowns last season. His performance in just his first year as a starter sets the stage for an even bigger 2025, making him a top-tier cover option.
Oklahoma State Cowboys – Kyran Duhon, DE
Despite a tough 2024, Oklahoma State added major talent through the portal, including Kyran Duhon. The UTEP transfer notched seven sacks as a freshman and brings much-needed firepower to the Cowboys' defense.
TCU Horned Frogs – Josh Hoover, QB
Josh Hoover nearly cracked the 4,000-yard mark in 2024 and accounted for 27 touchdowns. He's back to lead TCU again, and his strong arm and experience should keep the Horned Frogs competitive in the Big 12.
Texas Tech Red Raiders – Behren Morton, QB
Morton quietly had one of the best statistical seasons in the conference last year with 3,300 passing yards and 27 touchdowns. Even with a reshuffled receiving corps, he's expected to remain Texas Tech's top weapon.
UCF Knights – Jaden Nixon, RB
Western Michigan transfer Jaden Nixon takes over for RJ Harvey and brings big-play potential to UCF. After a 912-yard, 12-touchdown season, Nixon is the kind of high-upside runner that gamers will love to build around with their College Football 26 Coins.
Utah Utes – Wayshawn Parker, RB
Coming off a solid season at Washington State, Wayshawn Parker transfers to Utah with expectations to anchor an otherwise struggling offense. He's efficient and dependable—ideal qualities for any in-game roster.
West Virginia Mountaineers – Jaheim White, RB
Jaheim White has quietly become West Virginia's most consistent offensive force. If the Mountaineers hope to climb the conference standings, White will be the driving factor.
Final Thoughts
Whether you're lining up your dream roster or just stacking up CFB 26 Coins to unlock your favorite stars, these Big 12 cover picks give fans a lot to be excited about. With talent spread across the conference, expect a thrilling season both on the field and in the game.
MMOexp College Football 26 Team