Former Detroit Lions running back Barry Sanders apologized in a message to NFL fans following a curious decision he made this offseason. The Hall of Fame legend was known for leaving the sport prematurely, as he retired following ten years with the Lions.
He’s doing something similar this offseason.
Barry Sanders is stepping away from Madden
Many Millennials and Gen Z football fans know of Sanders’ heroics due to the EA Sports video game franchise “Madden.” Sanders was a popular player in the Madden Ultimate Team mode because of his superior 99 overall rating. However, Sanders is stepping away from the video game.
The Detroit Lions icon apologized for leaving the Madden franchise
Per a statement by Sanders on his X account, the former Lions hero announced he was discontinuing his relationship with Madden. He apologized to NFL fans who were hoping for Sanders to be in the next edition of Madden:
Hey @EASPORTS_MUT @EASPORTS @EAMaddenNFL gamers & fans…. Breaking News.
I have decided after many years to discontinue my relationship with the brand & the products. I apologize for those that were expecting me in the games. I leave you with #CyberBarry @Lions @NFL @NFLPA
Hey @EASPORTS_MUT @EASPORTS @EAMaddenNFL gamers & fans…. Breaking News.
I have decided after many years to discontinue my relationship with the brand & the products.
I apologize for those that were expecting me in the games.
I leave you with #CyberBarry @Lions @NFL @NFLPA pic.twitter.com/w6mav1nILY
— Barry Sanders (@BarrySanders) April 30, 2024
Sanders didn’t explain why he decided to remove his name, image, and likeness from the video game. Many fans will likely be sad they can’t use one of the best running backs in the league’s history on their ultimate team. However, it’s nice Sanders acknowledged the Madden fanbase before users downloaded the game.
NFL fans react to Sanders’ apology
Here are the best takes on fans reacting to Sanders’ apology.
No apologies needed! I wouldn’t want my name and likeness to be associated with that pile of crap they call a “simulation football game” either.
— Kevin Smith (@SmithBKevin) April 30, 2024
Need the NFL and NFLPA to not give exclusivity to EA. The Madden games have been trash for years now. Just paying money for roster updates.
— Ryan Kohler (@RyanKohler10) April 30, 2024
I bet even Barry Sanders is worried that the new NCAA game will be like Madden
— Herd Bros (@TheHerdBros) April 30, 2024
It’s time for @nflcommish to rescind their exclusivity agreement
Their franchise mode has been terrible for over a decade. Other companies should have the ability to compete in the marketplace and have the ability to put out a product fans want to enjoy
— Chicago Giants Fan (CGF_Sports) (@CGF_Sports) April 30, 2024
— DaddyDimmuTV (@DaddyDimmuTv) April 30, 2024
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