Travis Hunter shakes up Madden 26 with game-changing custom ability

Madden NFL 26 will debut a groundbreaking feature: a custom-built ability created specifically for Jacksonville Jaguars rookie Travis Hunter. Selected second overall in the 2025 NFL Draft, Hunter is aiming to play on both sides of the ball—an uncommon challenge in the modern NFL. To reflect his unique role, EA Sports’ Tiburon studio designed a special in-game ability, making Hunter the first rookie ever to receive a personalized skill in Madden. The addition highlights both his rare versatility and the physical demands of playing as a true two-way player.

EA Sports has confirmed that Jaguars rookie Travis Hunter will have “exclusive” features in Madden 26, including a special ability that lessens the impact of Wear & Tear. Given Hunter’s rare role as a two-way player, he’d normally face a higher risk of injury from the added workload. However, this custom ability is built to ease that burden, helping him stay healthier and more durable throughout the game.

The game company developed the Iron Man ability specifically for Travis Hunter, allowing him to effectively play both wide receiver and cornerback without suffering significant stamina loss or being heavily affected by Madden’s Wear and Tear injury system.

Madden 26 brings over the Wear and Tear system from College Football, which previously caused two-way players to fatigue quickly and face a higher risk of injuries, mistakes, or fumbles. However, Travis Hunter’s new custom ability changes that dynamic—his stamina lasts longer, he’s more resilient to injury, and his performance stays consistent, even while handling responsibilities on both sides of the ball.

Travis Hunter and new developments in Madden 26

In past Madden titles, players couldn’t hold starting roles on both offense and defense, and even workaround methods—like using special formations to plug slot receivers in at cornerback—came with restrictions. But with Travis Hunter entering the league as a true two-way threat, EA revamped Madden 26’s depth chart system to allow for greater flexibility, making room for dual-role players like him.

Now, franchises in Madden 26 can officially designate players like Travis Hunter as two-way starters. While most players won’t thrive in both roles, this update gives fans the tools to accurately replicate the experience of managing a true two-way talent.

EA Sports’ decision comes in response to Travis Hunter’s standout college career, where he captured the Heisman Trophy at Colorado football while making an impact on both offense and defense. This offseason, the Jacksonville Jaguars selected him with the second overall pick, openly committing to using him as a two-way player—a move that has generated major excitement and high expectations for his NFL debut.

Travis Hunter’s arrival is already reshaping the way Madden is built. Earlier this week, EA Sports dropped a wave of new details about Madden 26, highlighting major additions like Coach and QB DNA, along with expanded player traits. With all these updates, this year’s game is shaping up to be one of the most dynamic yet.