Cigar Funhouse

[frappier]

Deion Sanders and Bill Belichick are notably absent from EA Sports College Football 26 due to licensing and likeness rights issues. Unlike players, whose image rights are usually bundled in group NIL agreements, coaches had to negotiate individual licensing deals with EA. While over 300 coaches agreed to terms, both Sanders (Colorado) and Belichick (North Carolina) declined to sign the agreements, opting out of inclusion in the game.

These two are among the most brand-conscious coaches, and they did not want their likenesses used on terms they didn’t control. Sanders, known as "Coach Prime," embodies a strong personal brand and showmanship that EA couldn't legally capture without his full consent. As a result, in the game, Colorado is led by a fictional coach named "Kirk Patrick," lacking the signature swagger and persona of Sanders. The absence feels as noticeable as trying to build a team without access to cheap CFB 26 Coins, where the missing element impacts overall authenticity.

Their absence has left a noticeable gap in Dynasty Mode, as both coaches are legendary figures who greatly influence team identity and fan engagement. Fans and players have expressed disappointment, especially Colorado supporters, who feel the team's digital representation lacks authenticity without Sanders.

Both Sanders and Belichick declined EA’s licensing agreements.

Coaches require individual deals separate from player NIL arrangements.

Their iconic presence is missing, replaced by generic stand-ins.

This affects authenticity and immersion, particularly in Dynasty Mode.

The situation highlights growing complexities around likeness rights in sports video games.

Whether future agreements will bring them into upcoming versions remains uncertain, but their absence in NCAA 26 underscores the evolving landscape of rights management in college sports gaming. For now, fans are left hoping EA can strike better deals in the future—much like players who look to buy NCAA 26 Coins to maximize their in-game experience.