The best Madden 26 playbooks depend a lot on your style, though a handful of them have more to offer than most. Some, like the Bengals playbook, rely entirely on one kind of play, and while it works, it’s still not a bad idea to tinker around with other books to shake up your methods and avoid predictability.
Below, we’ve listed some of the best Madden 26 playbooks for offensive and defensive play.
Best offensive playbooks in Madden 26
There’s one playbook you can expect everyone to use – for good reason – but if you’re looking for a bit more variety, you’ve got quite a lot to choose from.
Cincinatti Bengals
There’s no shortage of strong offensive playbooks in Madden 26, but if passing is your game, then you definitely need to give the Cincinatti Bengals playbook a go at least once. The caveat is that there’s a non-zero chance EA might nerf it at some point, since it’s earned a reputation as being “so good it’s basically broken.” Still, maybe it’s meant to be that way.
Whatever the case, passing is still part of Madden’s meta this year, and this is the best of the best when it comes to offensive passing-focused playbooks.
Philadelphia Eagles
This year, the Eagles have one of the most potent books that relies on more than just one play style. Your snag keeps blitzes at bay, you’ve got two Wildcat formations, and the flex is one of the most flexible (ha) in the game, with multiple routes of attack. On top of all that is an excellent pass play that, assuming you make it around the edges of your opponent’s defense, leaves you free to rack up the yards.
Pittsburgh Steelers
If you want something different, try the Pittsburgh Steelers’ playbook. It’s a common pick outside of simulation modes and gives you more variety to work with beyond just relying on passes. The Steelers’ book includes solid zone coverage, options for a (good) halfback to carry the day, and counters to common defensive strategies.
Green Bay Packers
Then there’s the Green Bay Packers. This one’s a bit less flashy than some of the others, but it gets the job done. It’s also one of the more balanced books in the game, with excellent potential for wide receivers and running backs alike. This isn’t likely a book that’ll carry you to the top in simulation mode, though – jack of all trades, etc etc.
Best defensive playbooks in Madden 26
Defense isn’t a strong point in Madden 26, though there are a couple of playbooks that stand out.
Tennessee Titans
The Titans’ defensive playbook is something of an underrated gem this year. While it’s not one you’ll commonly see recommended, those that do try it end up sticking with it. It excels at rushing and sacks, though it struggles more against passes. Still, if you can stop the pass from even happening, you’re in good shape.
Detroit Lions
The Lions’ defensive playbook stands out thanks to its versatility, as it doesn’t just depend on one style, like the Titans’ book. It gives you options for blitzes, 3-4 and 4-3 options, and ways to keep your opponent guessing what your plan actually is. It’s a strong choice for just starting out, but there’s a lot of depth to experiment with as you grow more comfortable with your game, too.
For more Madden help, keep our list of Madden 26 combine answers handy so you know what to expect during your career interviews.