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Franchise mode in Madden 26 offers players the ultimate experience of managing an NFL team, from drafting rookies to making tough decisions in the front office. However, the road to success isn’t always smooth, and many players fall into common traps that can derail their franchise’s potential. To help you get the most out of your Madden 26 Franchise Mode, here are 13 mistakes to avoid.
1. Ignoring Team Chemistry

Team chemistry is more than just a buzzword in Madden 26. Building a cohesive unit both on and off the field can significantly affect player performance. Be mindful of how your roster is structured and how players interact in the locker room. Neglecting this can lead to locker room drama and poor team morale.
2. Overpaying for Free Agents

It’s tempting to splash the cash and sign big-name players in free agency. However, this can quickly eat into your salary cap, limiting your ability to sign key players in the future. Be sure to balance your roster with a mix of high-value veterans and promising rookies. Instead of splurging on a single player, spread out your Madden NFL 26 Coins to strengthen multiple positions.
3. Not Developing Young Talent

The draft is a cornerstone of building a successful franchise, but many players make the mistake of ignoring their drafted rookies after the season starts. It’s important to invest time in developing young players to ensure your team’s long-term success. Set aside time to focus on training sessions and make use of your Madden 26 Coins to upgrade their stats through various training opportunities.
4. Poor Salary Cap Management

One of the trickiest aspects of Madden 26 Franchise Mode is managing your salary cap. Many players forget to consider the financial implications when signing big contracts or offering extensions. A bloated roster with high salaries can cripple your future negotiations and free-agent signings.
5. Ignoring Team Needs

It's easy to get carried away in the excitement of the draft or free agency, but it’s important to remember your team’s weaknesses. Rather than signing players for the sake of their ratings, focus on filling the gaps in your roster. Whether it's a lack of depth at cornerback or needing a star running back, being strategic with your acquisitions is crucial.
6. Neglecting the Scouting Process

In Madden 26, scouting is your primary tool for finding hidden gems in the draft. Many players rush through the scouting process, focusing only on high-rated prospects. However, making the mistake of overlooking late-round talent can result in missed opportunities. Dedicate time to fully scout every position and find those undervalued players who could eventually become franchise cornerstones.
7. Failing to Adapt to Player Development

Player development is a dynamic process in Madden 26. Players don’t develop in the same way each season, and you need to adapt to their changing needs. Pay attention to how players perform during games and tailor their training to strengthen weaknesses. This will help build a more well-rounded roster over time.
8. Not Managing Your Coaching Staff

While it’s easy to focus on the players, your coaching staff is just as important. A well-structured coaching staff can help develop players and improve team performance. Don’t make the mistake of overlooking this aspect. Invest in the right coaches and coordinators who can enhance your team’s strengths and cover its weaknesses.
9. Forgetting About Madden NFL 26 Coins Use

When managing your team, it's crucial not to forget the importance of your Madden 26 Coins. These coins allow you to unlock key resources, upgrade players, and make impactful trades. If you don’t manage your coin balance properly, you may find yourself unable to make crucial upgrades or trades mid-season.
10. Sticking to the Same Gameplan

Football, like any sport, evolves. Sticking with the same playbook and gameplan can make your offense and defense predictable. Adapt your strategies based on your opponents, and don’t be afraid to switch things up. Experiment with different schemes and game plans to keep your opponents guessing.
11. Not Trading for the Right Players

Trades are an essential part of Madden 26 Franchise Mode, and making the wrong trade can cost you. Always make sure that your trades make sense for the long-term success of your team. A single bad trade could set you back in the development of your franchise, especially if you give away valuable draft picks or young players.
12. Overvaluing Age

In Madden 26, a player’s age can be deceiving. While older players may have high ratings, their performance can begin to decline rapidly. Don’t fall into the trap of overvaluing veterans at the cost of younger, up-and-coming players. Be mindful of a player's age when offering extensions and contracts, and make sure you're investing in the future, not just the present.
13. Skipping Preseason

Many players make the mistake of skipping the preseason entirely. However, the preseason is a valuable opportunity to evaluate your depth chart and experiment with different player combinations. Skipping it may save time, but it could leave you unprepared for the regular season, especially when it comes to discovering hidden talent or finalizing your roster.


Managing a successful franchise in Madden 26 is about more than just winning games—it's about making strategic decisions off the field that will lead to long-term success. Avoiding these 13 mistakes will help you build a franchise capable of dominating the NFL for years to come. Keep an eye on your salary cap, make wise use of your Madden NFL 26 Coins, and focus on player development to ensure your team remains competitive for seasons to come.