Caleb Williams becomes first Chicago Bear on Madden NFL cover for Madden NFL 27

June 3, 2026 - 18:01

Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams has landed the cover of Madden NFL 27, becoming the first player in franchise history to appear on the front of the iconic video game series. The honor marks a major milestone for both the young signal-caller and a Bears organization that has waited decades for this kind of recognition in the gaming world.

Williams, who was selected first overall in the 2024 NFL Draft, is coming off a rookie season that showed flashes of the dynamic playmaking ability that made him a Heisman Trophy winner at USC. While the Bears struggled to a 5-12 record, Williams threw for over 3,500 yards and 20 touchdowns, giving fans hope for the future. Now, his face will be plastered on store shelves and digital storefronts nationwide when Madden NFL 27 drops later this year.

The announcement ends a long drought for Chicago. Despite a storied history featuring Hall of Fame players like Walter Payton, Dick Butkus, and Brian Urlacher, no Bear had ever graced the cover of the Madden franchise since its debut in 1988. Williams now joins an elite list of quarterbacks who have been featured, including Patrick Mahomes, Tom Brady, and Peyton Manning.

For Williams, the cover is another sign that he is becoming the face of the franchise both on and off the field. The pressure will be on to deliver a winning season, but for now, Bears fans can celebrate a small piece of history. Madden NFL 27 is expected to release in August.