As anticipation builds for the release of College Football 26, fans are getting a first look at the top-rated players in the game, and Texas Longhorns supporters have every reason to be excited. EA Sports recently unveiled the top 10 defensive players set to make an impact in the upcoming title, and two Texas defenders, linebacker Anthony Hill Jr. and EDGE rusher Colin Simmons, secured spots among the elite.
Texas Duo Earns Top 10 Defensive Spots in College Football 26 Rankings
Following the success of College Football 25, which reintroduced fans to the thrill of controlling their favorite college programs on the virtual gridiron, the new installment is shaping up to raise the bar. From enhanced gameplay mechanics to detailed roster builds and player customization, College Football 26 promises to be the definitive experience for fans of NCAA football, and with the inclusion of College Football 26 Coins, users will have more flexibility than ever to upgrade teams, unlock items, and personalize their playthrough.
Among the biggest storylines heading into release is the strength of the Texas defense. The Longhorns are rated as the second-best defensive team in the game at 94 overall, trailing only Alabama's 96. That high ranking is powered largely by the dominance of Hill and Simmons, who had standout seasons in 2024 and are now among the most formidable defenders in College Football 26.
Anthony Hill Jr.
Anthony Hill Jr., Texas's standout linebacker, earned a massive 95 overall rating, tied for the second-highest defensive rating in the entire game and the top rating for a linebacker. Only Ohio State safety Caleb Downs, at 96 overall, and Clemson EDGE TJ Parker, also at 95, are in Hill's class.
Hill's rating is well-earned. He was a force of nature for Texas last season, finishing with a staggering 113 total tackles, including 16.5 tackles for loss and eight sacks. He also added an interception and four forced fumbles to his stat line, demonstrating his versatility and knack for playmaking in key moments.
His season-long impact earned him a spot on the AP All-America second team and made him a projected first-round selection in the 2026 NFL Draft. It's that real-life performance that gamers will now get to replicate, and dominate with, in College Football 26.
Using College Football 26 Coins, players can unlock exclusive boosts and equipment for Hill, giving him even more edge on the digital field. Whether customizing his gear or enhancing team chemistry, Hill is a must-have asset for anyone building a powerhouse dynasty in the game.
Colin Simmons
Joining Hill among the game's best is EDGE rusher Colin Simmons, who earned a 93 overall rating in his first year of college football. Simmons ranks seventh overall on the defensive list and is tied for third among all EDGE rushers, sharing the spot with Auburn's Keldrick Faulk.
Simmons played a pivotal role for the Longhorns in 2024 as a true freshman. He appeared in all 16 games, posting 14 tackles for loss, nine sacks, one interception, and three forced fumbles. His explosive debut campaign earned him several honors, including Freshman All-America recognition, a spot on the SEC All-Freshman Team, and the prestigious 2024 Shawn Alexander Freshman of the Year Award.
With those accolades and on-field production, Simmons heads into his sophomore season poised to become one of the most feared defenders in college football. And now, with his presence in College Football 26, gamers will be able to unleash his talents from the opening whistle.
Like Hill, Simmons can also benefit from the game's College Football 26 Coins system. Whether enhancing his traits or purchasing unique player animations and celebrations, Simmons offers both power and style for players looking to anchor their defense.
Texas Defense
Thanks to the presence of Hill and Simmons, Texas boasts one of the most balanced and explosive defenses in College Football 26. Rated 94 overall, the Longhorns trail only Alabama in overall defensive power, but they offer more flexibility and star potential in terms of user control.
For players using College Football 26 Coins, Texas offers a tremendous return on investment. Whether customizing the team's defensive schemes, upgrading attributes, or accessing exclusive in-game content, the Longhorns stand out as one of the most rewarding programs to build around.
With a high-powered defense and an exciting core of young stars, Texas is poised to be a fan-favorite in both the real 2025 college football season and its digital counterpart. Hill and Simmons, as cornerstones of that success, represent not only the future of the Texas program but also the heart of one of the best defensive squads available in the game.
Final Thoughts
EA Sports' decision to highlight two Texas defenders in its top 10 speaks volumes about the Longhorns' rising national prominence, and gives fans of the program a thrilling reason to dive into College Football 26. With CFB 26 Coins adding a new layer of customization and progression, players can take the Texas defense to new heights and craft a legacy that mirrors real-world excellence.
Whether you're planning to grind through Dynasty mode, challenge friends in head-to-head matchups, or chase glory in the new Road to Glory features, Hill and Simmons will be game-changers, and thanks to their elite ratings, they'll be dominant forces from day one.
Mmoptk College Football 26 Team
