Cam Newton feels ignored by Madden franchise, says EA never treated him like an NFL superstar
Cam Newton finally speaks out on never making the Madden cover (Getty Images)
Despite being one of the NFL's most electrifying players during his prime, Cam Newton has never graced the cover of the iconic Madden video game. For someone who was once the face of the Carolina Panthers and a 2015 league MVP, this omission hasn't gone unnoticed—especially not by Newton himself.
MVP, Super Bowl run, cultural icon—but Cam Newton still left off
Madden cover
, and he's had enough
The former quarterback recently took to his 4th and 1 podcast to air his frustrations with EA Sports, and it's clear the snub still stings. From 2011 to 2018, Newton wasn't just one of the most recognizable figures in the league—he was a dominant force both on the field and in Madden ratings. Yet, he was repeatedly overlooked while players like Peyton Hillis, Rob Gronkowski, and Odell Beckham Jr. claimed the coveted cover spot.
While being passed over for the cover was one thing, Newton is now irked for another reason. EA Sports recently brought in former wide receiver Chad Ochocinco to assist with player ratings in the Madden franchise—a decision that has Newton scratching his head.
'Do you know what these thumbs will do? I've never seen Chad play,' Newton said on his podcast. '... I feel highly disrespected EA hasn't called me for Madden ratings.' Not only is Newton convinced he's a better Madden player than Ochocinco, but he also challenged him to a head-to-head matchup, confidently stating, 'He plays FIFA!'
It's not just talk, either.
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Newton is an active gamer who frequently streams both Madden and College Football 25. He takes the game seriously—not relying on powerhouse teams to mask weak gameplay. 'Scheme, not the team,' he said, proudly claiming that he never uses a team rated 86 overall or higher.
Newton also poked fun at how Ochocinco might approach a matchup, suggesting that he'd probably pick a team like the Kansas City Chiefs or Baltimore Ravens—top-tier franchises that give casual gamers an edge.
But Newton isn't fazed. He trusts his strategy and skill, not just raw team ratings, to win games.
His candid criticism of EA Sports speaks to a larger conversation about how players are recognized—or not—by the media and gaming industries. For Newton, it's not just about ratings or cover appearances. It's about respect. And when someone with his résumé and passion for the game isn't even consulted for feedback, it raises eyebrows.
Whether or not EA Sports takes notice remains to be seen. But Newton's competitive fire, even off the field, clearly hasn't burned out.
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Bill Belichick's obsession with Jordon Hudson raises red flags about his coaching future
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