Philadelphia Eagles running back Saquon Barkley is the official cover star for Madden 26, but he’s not the only player featured in the iconic image. Jacksonville Jaguars cornerback Jarrian Jones also appears, albeit without his name or jersey number visible. The cover captures a jaw-dropping moment from their Week 9 clash in the 2024 NFL season, where Barkley executed a stunning backward leap over Jones, instantly cementing the play as a highlight-reel classic.
Many speculated that Jones might feel embarrassed about being immortalized as the player Barkley hurdled on the Madden 26 cover. However, the young cornerback addressed the buzz for the first time after the Jaguars’ opening day of mandatory minicamp on Tuesday, and his response was refreshingly candid.
.@Saquon hurdled his way onto the cover of #Madden26
Coming 8.14.25. Pre-Order Today.
🔗: https://t.co/zm14BbUaJf pic.twitter.com/l1QYWN0b7h
— Madden NFL 26 (@EAMaddenNFL) June 2, 2025
“Shit was kind of hard, for real,” Jones said, flashing a grin. “I’ve seen it. I don’t have Twitter, so I saw it on Instagram. I was like, damn, they didn’t put my number on there. The play was fire to me. Everybody [direct messaged] me like I was going to be mad or something. I don’t give a damn. He made a good play, it is what it is.”
When asked if he wished his jersey number had been included on the cover, Jones kept the mood light. “They got to pay me for it,” he joked. “But I don’t care, really. I don’t really play Madden anyways.”
Jarrian Jones reacts to Madden cover. 👀
“S*** was kinda hard.” pic.twitter.com/BONXf9oiTy
— Jamal St. Cyr (@JStCyrTV) June 10, 2025
Jones’ assumptions that he’d be upset couldn’t be further from the truth. His laid-back, good-sport attitude shines through, proving there’s no lingering sting from being part of Barkley’s highlight. After all, there’s no shame in being bested by a superstar like Barkley, one of the NFL’s premier running backs.
In his 2024 rookie season, Jones recorded 40 total tackles, eight passes defended, and one interception. According to Pro Football Focus, he earned a solid 64.0 overall grade and ranked an impressive sixth among 222 cornerbacks in run defense. With four starts under his belt, Jones is now vying for a permanent starting role in the Jaguars’ secondary in 2025.
As Jones focuses on elevating his game, the Madden 26 cover remains a testament to his involvement in one of the NFL’s most electrifying plays of 2024. His ability to laugh it off and keep his eyes on the field speaks volumes about his character and potential as a rising star.