Missouri State says it will get more than $100k in royalties due to team’s popularity in EA Sports College Football 26 video game

May 9, 2026 - 15:29

Missouri State University is set to receive more than one hundred thousand dollars in royalties from the upcoming EA Sports College Football 26 video game. The payout is a direct result of the team's surging popularity following its transition to the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) this season.

The university's athletic department confirmed the figure, which comes from a revenue-sharing model that pays schools based on how often players and teams are selected by gamers. Missouri State's inclusion in the game for the first time as an FBS program has driven a notable spike in usage, translating into higher royalty earnings. Officials noted that the team's new conference affiliation and a strong fan base have made them a popular choice for players building custom dynasties or competing in online modes.

The money will be funneled back into the athletic program, with a portion allocated to the school's name, image, and likeness (NIL) collective. This allows the university to directly compensate its student-athletes for their digital appearances in the game. While other schools have reported similar windfalls, Missouri State's payout stands out as a significant early return on their FBS move. The game is scheduled for release this summer, and the university expects the royalties to climb as more players discover the team.