The NFL world always finds a way to celebrate their most iconic figures through their video game franchise, the Madden series. But the 2023 cover has a different feeling of nostalgia behind it. John Madden will be gracing it as the namesake of the highest-selling sports video game. The Pro Football Hall of Fame head coach of the Raiders and NFL analyst will be returning after a two-decade absence.

The Madden series video game developer EA Sports took to Twitter while sharing the cover of the upcoming game. It was a timely announcement from the developers as June 1 marks the anniversary of the launch of ‘John Madden Football’ in 1988.

They are also doing everything to honor the late legend with special artwork from Chuck Styles for their Madden 23 All-Madden Edition. 

It will also mark the return of the voice of Madden in the game, thanks to remastered audio. There was also an update on the $5 million John Madden Legacy Commitment to Education. It was following an announcement of the dedication of a field to honor the legendary Raiders head coach. There remain many other plans from EA Sports to honor the memory of one of the greatest NFL broadcasters.

NFL Twitter passes their verdict on the new Madden 23 cover 

A statement by the EA Sports executive vice president and GM Cam Weber, said, “Coach Madden was a lifelong believer in the importance of education, and we’re privileged to support these amazing organizations that are creating opportunities for the next generation to pursue their dreams in his honor.” The developers have taken all measures to celebrate the life of an influential football figure both on and off the field.

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However, fans on Twitter gave their verdicts about who the cover athlete should have been for the game. While there have been calls for certain players, other Twitter users were making funny suggestions for cover athletes.

One Twitter user was rooting for Pittsburgh Steelers QB Mitch Trubisky to be the cover athlete.

As the tributes pour in for the legendary voice of John Madden, another NFL season is right around the corner. The 2022 NFL campaign, while feeling his absence, will always remember his contributions and continue to play on!!

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