The Longhorns' disruptive edge rusher cements his national stardom as a featured cover athlete for EA Sports, following a dominant season leading the SEC in sacks.
Texas star edge rusher Colin Simmons continues to see his national profile rise, and now one of college football's biggest names has another major accomplishment to add to his growing resume.
Simmons was selected as one of the featured athletes on the Deluxe Edition cover of EA Sports College Football 27, placing the Longhorn standout alongside some of the sport's most recognizable faces ahead of the game's highly anticipated summer release.
Simmons joins a group that includes Oregon quarterback Dante Moore, USC quarterback Jayden Maiava, Miami receiver Malachi Toney, Ole Miss running back Kewan Lacy, Notre Dame cornerback Leonard Moore, and Indiana head coach Curt Cignetti.
For Texas fans, the recognition comes as little surprise.
Since arriving in Austin, Simmons has quickly developed into one of the most disruptive defenders in college football. His combination of speed, athleticism, and pass-rushing ability made him one of the nation's most exciting young players, and he has become a centerpiece of Steve Sarkisian's defense heading into the 2026 season.
In 2025, he racked up an SEC-leading 12 sacks, as well as 43 total tackles and 15.5 tackles for loss. He was also able to show his nose for the ball with a pair of passes defended, three forced fumbles, and a fumble recovery.
Being featured on the cover of one of the most popular sports video game franchises is a significant honor. There was an 11-year period where there was no college football game released. But the franchise came back in 2024, and immediately became one of the most beloved sports games in the world.
The selection also highlights Texas' continued prominence on the national stage. The Longhorns have become a fixture in preseason championship conversations, and Simmons has emerged as one of the program's biggest stars.
Simmons is no stranger to recognition from EA Sports. He was already one of the highest-rated defensive players in the game, carrying a 94 overall rating in College Football 26.
Now, he has earned an even more exclusive distinction.
As College Football 27 prepares for its full reveal and July launch, Longhorn fans will have a familiar face representing Texas on one of the game's biggest stages. For Simmons, it's another milestone in what is shaping up to be a remarkable college career.
