Top 5 Defense Tips in Madden NFL 26

Here are 5 pro-level defensive tips to take your Madden 26 game to the next level.

Run Fits

Start by using defensive run fits to shut down your opponent’s running game. 

In Cover 2, the outside corners are involved in run fits, making it effective against outside runs. 

Cover 3 includes one safety in a run fit, while Cover 4 has two safeties, making them ideal for stopping inside runs. In man coverage, players react to the run based on their awareness ratings, so it’s best when you have a strong overall defense.

3-Man Pass Rush

This tip is about achieving a pass rush with only three players. If done incorrectly, your opponent will have ample time to make a play. To succeed, blitz your user and approach the line, creating the illusion of being a pass rusher. This tactic will prompt the defensive line to shed blocks aggressively.

Defensive Line Stunts

For those who prefer direct pressure instead of relying on sheds, use the new defensive line stunt feature. To set up a stunt, press left on the d-pad and the right bumper. Navigate through different stunts using the d-pad. A popular choice among pros is the Texas 4 Man stunt, where defensive ends aim to penetrate through the middle effectively.

Man Shading and Route Committing

If you favor man coverage, this tip will help you shade your defense and commit defenders to specific routes. Press Triangle or Y, then use the right stick to choose shading options: overtop, underneath, inside, or outside. For instance, if you’re struggling against outside routes, shade outside to counter them. When shading isn’t enough, use route committing by pressing the right bumper and flicking the left stick inside or outside. Guess correctly, and your defense will effectively cover the route; guess incorrectly, and you risk getting beaten.

Custom Zones

Explore the new custom zones feature and some strategies for utilizing them. To customize a player’s zone, press Triangle or Y twice, select the player, hold the left bumper, and move the left stick down to shorten the zone or up to extend it. This is useful for adjusting short-side hook zones to cover drags crossing the field. Additionally, you can deploy hard flats on one side while adjusting the other side to counter deep routes.

Madden 26 Ultimate Team screenshot showing New York Jets quarterback Justin Fields being tackled by Kyle Van Noy of the Ravens.
Madden 26 Ultimate Team screenshot showing New York Jets quarterback Justin Fields being tackled by Kyle Van Noy of the Ravens. is now the current item in the media gallery
Madden 26 Ultimate Team screenshot showing New York Jets quarterback Justin Fields being tackled by Kyle Van Noy of the Ravens.