Buffs' Deion Sanders opts out of "College Football 26"

State of play: This is the first year EA Sports has added the likenesses of real coaches to its gameplay, but several coaches did not reach agreements or chose not to appear in the video game.

• In addition to Sanders, big names like North Carolina's Bill Belichick, Iowa's Kirk Ferentz and Miami's Mario Cristobal will not appear, according to Yahoo Sports.
• The in-game Buffs will instead be coached by Kirk Patrick, a fictional avatar.
• Sanders hasn't publicly given a reason for opting out, but Prime Time is famously meticulous with his public image and brand.
• Coach Prime did voice frustration last season with the ratings of some of his players in the 2025 edition of the video game, according to Sports Illustrated.

Our thought bubble: Is it too late for EA to include Buffs superfan Peggy instead?

The latest: CU's head coach, who had an undisclosed health issue this summer, appeared at Big 12 Media Days on Wednesday and said: "I'm looking good," BuffZone reports.

The big picture: "CFB 25" was among the most impactful ways college athletes benefitted from new name, image and likeness (NIL) rules.

• For last year's game, real-life college players made $600 and were given a free copy of the game for their NIL use.

What's inside: "CFB 26" smoothed out its gameplay and added a slew of in-stadium songs, mascots and celebrations.

• Developers also added dynamic weather, meaning you'll find some classic fall games in the afternoon glow.
• And, true to life, gamers playing as college athletes can accept NIL deals, giving them increased stats and traits.