Have you ever wondered how to assemble the most overpowered squad in Madden history? Well, buckle up and get ready to kick your competition to the curb. Let’s take a look at the top 25 most exciting and electrifying players to use in Madden 23.
25. Patrick Surtain II
To kick off our list, look no further than lock-down cornerback Patrick Surtain II. The second-year pro boasts a 91 Overall rating and comes equipped with the all-important Superstar X-Factor development trait.
“PS2” can easily rack up interceptions and will shadow the most talented receiver on your opponent’s team. Despite being such a young talent, Surtain has cemented himself as one of the best corners in the sport.
He has an outrageous 92-rated Man Coverage attribute, so roaming around with Surtain will guarantee some much-needed security in the secondary. And let’s not forget, he’s a huge threat to take interceptions to the house, with his 93-speed rating and 92 acceleration.
24. George Kittle
Next up, we’ve got one of the most sure-handed tight ends in the entire game. George Kittle’s 6-foot-4 frame makes him an easy target coming across the middle of the field and a true threat in the red zone.
Kittle is the second highest-rated tight end in Madden 23, sporting a 96 Overall and a Superstar X-Factor trait. When you feed Kittle the ball, his YAC ‘Em Up superstar ability all but guarantees a post-catch broken tackle, making it increasingly easy to earn yards in bunches. It doesn’t matter who’s throwing him the ball or who’s covering him, Kittle is capable of reeling in difficult catches in a crowd.
The dominant tight end also possesses a star ability that allows users to access four additional hot routes. Kittle’s added hot route bonus gives you a creative and lethal receiving option that will almost always find open space.
23. Budda Baker
Moving back to the defensive side of the ball, Budda Baker is arguably the most enticing option at safety in Madden 23. While he may not have an X-Factor development trait, his 89 Hit Power and 94 Play Recognition make him a perennial ball hawk.
At just 26 years old, Budda is a dynamic defensive weapon, with a 91 Overall rating and two Superstar ability slots. He’s armed with the Mid Zone KO ability that locks down the middle of the field and regularly forces catch knockouts on the best pass-catchers in the game.
Baker is capable of making huge plays when they matter most, and most importantly he’s a shoo-in to get the ball back in the hands of your offense.
22. Chris Jones
The 6-foot-6, 300-pound defensive lineman is one of the safest bets to stuff the run and get after your opponent’s quarterback. While he might not be the quickest guy on the defensive side of the ball, Jones’ sheer power makes up for his 69 Speed and 79 Acceleration.
He’s an unstoppable force on the defensive front, who refuses to quit until the opposing Quarterback is buried in the dirt. Jones sports a 96 Overall rating, which makes him the absolute best Defensive Tackle in the entire game.
His exceptional rating is accompanied by a Superstar X-Factor trait, which might be the most overpowered X-Factor ability in the history of the Madden franchise. When Jones gets his first sack of the game, all of his opponent’s players are knocked out of the zone and lose all progress toward entering the zone. And to make things easier, you’ll find it increasingly easy to pile up sacks with Jones, who has an absurd 97 Power Moves and 96 Pursuit.
21. Ja’Marr Chase
We’ve all heard the phrase, “Defense wins championships''. Well, enough talk about defense for now. Despite having just a single professional season under his belt, Chase is already a top-five option at the Wide Receiver position.
Coming in at 92 Overall, with 94 Speed and 93 Acceleration, the LSU product is a walking one-play touchdown. Ja’Marr’s route running is simply off the charts. His speed and route-running prowess will guarantee big plays in the blink of an eye. He breezes by defenders at will and is practically unstoppable once the ball winds up in his hands.
Equipped with a Superstar X-Factor, once Ja’Marr enters the zone, he has the supernatural ability to haul in aggressive catches with ease. Chase’s steerable juke animations provide users with an electrifying option in the open field, making him capable of taking a short slant or a screen pass to the house. Just lob the ball up and call it a day, Ja’Marr Chase will find a way to score.
20. Justin Herbert
Our first Quarterback to make the list is none other than third-year pro Justin Herbert. Herbert has a sixth sense in the pocket but can scramble at the drop of a hat. His 6-foot-6, 236-pound frame makes him a true nightmare for defensive lines, who are better off playing coverage than trying to sack Herbert.
With 85 Speed and 96 Throw Power, he is the definition of a dual-threat QB. While he might not be known for racking up rushing yards in the NFL, he’s equipped with enough juice to get to the edge and pick up first downs with his legs.
Whether you’re abusing his escapability and throwing on the run, or standing flat-footed in the pocket, Herbert’s cannon for an arm will surely lead to some awesome touchdowns.
19. Derwin James Jr.
Fifth-year pro Derwin James Jr. is one of the most dynamic defensive players in Madden 23. Coming in at 94 Overall, James flexes a whopping 91 Hit Power and 89 Zone Coverage. With 94 Acceleration, he’s one of the quickest secondary players out there who is always a pick-six threat.
The 6-foot-2 Strong Safety has a Superstar X-Factor trait that transforms him into a run-stopping maniac. When Derwin enters the zone, he has increased chances of beating run blocks and racking up tackles behind the line of scrimmage.
James makes for an enticing option, thanks to his Lumberjack star ability, which causes more fumbles when using the hit stick and practically prevents broken tackles. Whether he’s picking off passes or snuffing out runs, Derwin James Jr. can simply do it all.
18. T.J. Watt
The Steelers’ outside linebacker started off his career in the shadow of his brother and future Hall of Famer J.J. Watt. But after five exceptional years as a pro, and tying the NFL record for the most sacks in a single season, T.J. has blossomed into a one-of-a-kind type of player.
Sporting a 94 Overall rating and 96 Pursuit, T.J. is arguably the best linebacker in the NFL. His Superstar X-Factor ability comes with quite the fitting name - Unstoppable Force. Upon sacking the QB, Watt enters the zone and has a significantly increased win rate against one-on-one pass blocks.
He’s also armed with the Strip Specialist ability that increases his chances of forcing fumbles, without sacrificing tackling efficiency. T.J. is a fearsome pass rusher who can dominate the defensive side of the ball and create turnovers in an instant.
17. Jalen Ramsey
In his six seasons as a pro, the Florida State product has made it clear that opposing Quarterbacks should think twice before throwing his direction. Ramsey is the highest-rated cornerback in Madden 23 with an outrageous 97 Overall rating, 97 Man Coverage, and 95 Zone Coverage attributes.
Ramsey is the highest-rated secondary player on our list, and for good reason. His Bottleneck Superstar X-Factor trait ensures he’ll win press encounters with receivers, when in man coverage. And if that’s not enough to sell you on Ramsey, his Acrobat star ability provides him with increased range on interceptions.
Jalen Ramsey is all but guaranteed to fetch miraculous interceptions, and his 95 acceleration could bring your side several big-time pick-sixes to help cement victories.
16. Derrick Henry
While Henry may be the lowest overall rated player, this high on the list, he may be the most dominant running back in Madden 23. Henry comes in at 94 Overall and boasts 94 Break Tackle, 99 Stiff Arm, and 91 Speed.
Henry is not an explosive back. His 86 Acceleration may not be as exciting as guys like Austin Ekeler or Josh Jacobs, yet he certainly makes up for his reduced Speed ratings with his tackle-shedding strength.
The 6-foot-3, 255-pound back has the Freight Train Superstar X-Factor ability, which practically guarantees he’ll break tackles when in the zone. He also offers more powerful stiff-arm animations and can shed hit-stick tackles with ease.
15. Micah Parsons
It seems impossible for a second-year pro to receive a 96 Overall rating and a Superstar X-Factor. But Micah Parsons is a generational talent and a genetic specimen. With 92 Speed and 95 Acceleration, sacking the QB is easier than stealing candy from a baby.
Parsons poses as a frightening pass rusher since he’s the fastest linebacker in the entire game. What makes him so truly special, is the ability to line him up as an edge rusher or outside linebacker, without sacrificing any rating points.
Thanks to his 93 Finesse Moves and 94 Pursuit, Parsons can make his way to the Quarterback without breaking a sweat. Slot him into your lineup and reap the benefits of one of the most explosive pass rushers in the game.
14. Stefon Diggs
Despite having a smaller and slender frame, Stefon Diggs is a dynamic route runner and as sure-handed as they come. He’s the third-highest-ranked Wide Receiver in Madden 23, with a 97 Overall rating and a tantalizing Superstar X-Factor ability.
When Diggs enters the zone, his Rac ‘Em Up ability increases his run-after-catch success rate, meaning it’s easier than ever to break one to the house. He’s also armed with the Juke Box star ability that provides users with steerable juke animations, further increasing your chances of completing huge catch-and-run plays.
With 94 Acceleration, 94 Release, and 97 Catching it’s practically impossible to miss him running a deep route downfield. Diggs benefits from having strong-armed Josh Allen at QB, but it doesn’t matter who’s throwing him the ball. Just get the ball in his hands and he’ll find a way to make a play.
13. Joe Burrow
Joe “Shiesty” is just the second Quarterback to make our list, but he joins some truly elite company. Burrow is one of the top-rated QBs in Madden 23, boasting a 95 Overall rating and some truly exceptional throwing attributes.
Burrow provides 99 Short Throw Accuracy, 98 Medium Throw Accuracy, and 94 Throw Under Pressure. This unique combination of abilities offers users the chance to break NFL passing records, no matter who is lined up to catch his passes.
Thanks to his pinpoint accuracy and composure under pressure, Burrow’s Superstar ability gives him perfect accuracy while throwing on the run. Joe Burrow is as poised as they come, making it easy for him to launch passes deep into your opponent’s territory with inch-perfect precision.
12. Myles Garrett
The supernatural edge rusher is our first 99 Overall to make the list. While he might not be the fastest defender in the game, his 98 Power Moves and 97 Pursuit give nightmares to opposing offensive lines.
It truly feels like Myles Garrett was created in a lab. The prolific Right End stands at 6-foot-4 and 272 pounds, yet he has 88 Speed and 86 Acceleration. Once he gets going, there’s no stopping him.
His Superstar X-Factor ability gives him an increased chance of beating linemen one-on-one, after recording his first sack of the game. So if you’re a fan of dominating the defensive end of the ball, Garrett is the perfect ingredient to a ruthless pass rush.
11. Cooper Kupp
Despite taking a few years to truly break out in the NFL, Cooper Kupp proved his worth by single-handedly leading the Rams to Super Bowl glory. Shortly after taking home the Super Bowl MVP award, Kupp was boosted to a 97 Overall in Madden 23.
His mix of speed, height, and steady hands make him a top-3 Wide Receiver in the entire game. Kupp has 99 Catching, 98 Route Running, and 96 acceleration, so he’s essentially immune to weak quarterback play.
Kupp has the same Superstar X-Factor ability as Stefon Diggs, but the slot man’s extra speed and catching prowess set him apart from the pack. Whether you’re throwing deep bombs or short slants, Kupp is guaranteed to come down with the ball and earn additional yardage.
10. Travis Kelce
The two-time Super Bowl champion may just be the greatest Tight End to ever play in the NFL. Kelce is one of few members of the 99 Overall Club, thanks to his ability to read zone defenses and fight for yards after the catch.
His Superstar X-Factor ability - Double Me - makes it nearly impossible for defenders to knock the ball out of his hands. Once Kelce enters the zone, he has an increased success rate on aggressive catches. He’s one of few guys in the game that you can count on to haul in passes with defenders draped all over him.
With 97 Catching and 93 Spectacular Catch, Kelce has higher catching stats than the vast majority of Wide Receivers in Madden 23. Although he isn’t the speediest receiving option, he tends to find himself open more often than not. Slot Kelce into your starting lineup and you can always count on him to create separation and score in the red zone.
9. Nick Chubb
Chubb is the first running back to make our list, thanks to his ludicrous ability to shed defenders and break off long runs. Coming in at 97 Overall, Chubb is the perfect combination of speed and power.
He has a 99 Break Tackle attribute, accompanied by 93 Trucking and 96 Stiff Arm. Chubb is anything but one-sided, as he brings 92 speed and 91 acceleration to the table. His Wrecking Ball Superstar X-Factor is easily attained, by rushing for 10+ yards just three times in a game.
Once he enters the zone, it’s practically curtains. Chubb is given an increased success rate on both stiff arms and truck attempts, making it even more difficult to bring him down. The 5th year pro has all of the tools necessary to lead your side to a swift and enthralling victory.
8. Davante Adams
After making the switch to the Las Vegas Raiders, many questioned if Davante Adams would be as good as he was with Aaron Rodgers. Adams quieted his doubters and excelled in Las Vegas, cementing him with a 98 Overall Rating.
Adams has the perfect frame at Wide Receiver, standing at 6-foot-1 and 215 pounds. He will be your Quarterback’s best friend and has some of the safest hands in the entire game. Davante has 98 Catching, 98 Spectacular Catch, and 99 Release.
There’s no stopping Adams once he gets going, as he is equipped with the Double Me Superstar X-Factor ability. Davante can tower over defenders and reel in passes, even if they are underthrown. Send him on a streak in single coverage and he’ll be sure to reward you for doing so.
7. Aaron Donald
AD is the highest-ranked defensive player on our list and for good reason. The 99 Overall-rated Defensive Tackle eats up offensive linemen and does whatever it takes to get to the Quarterback.
Despite being on the wrong side of 30, Donald is a truly unstoppable pass rusher. With 90 Acceleration, 99 Power Moves, and 97 Block Shedding, it’s quite likely that he’ll record a handful of sacks every time he suits up. He’s one of few players to have the Blitz Superstar X-Factor, which wipes out the entire opposing offensive line’s resistance bars.
Donald not only creates opportunities for himself but quite literally decimates the opposing team’s pass protection. Thanks to his Inside Stuff and No Outsiders star abilities, the prolific defensive tackle has improved chances at shedding blocks on run plays. Aaron Donald is undoubtedly the best defensive player in Madden 23.
6. Justin Jefferson
While Justin Jefferson has a lower Overall Rating than Davante Adams and Cooper Kupp, his in-game statistics make him the second-best Wide Receiver in the game. Jefferson’s claim to fame is his swaggy personality and iconic Griddy touchdown dance. But his 92 Speed, 99 Spectacular Catch, and 97 Catch in Traffic are what catapulted him up this list.
The third-year pro has quickly become the best receiver in the NFL, and it’s no different in Madden 23. Jefferson can torch secondaries in a wide range of possibilities. Throw him a slant and he’s gone. Or chuck up a prayer on 4th and 30 and he’ll somehow find a way to move the chains.
Jefferson is the perfect balance of speed, route running dominance, and big play ability. His Superstar X-Factor increases his aggressive catching capability, making it even easier to complete deep bombs in your opponent’s territory.
5. Christian McCaffrey
CMC is our highest ranked Running Back, thanks to his uncommon blend of pass-catching mastery and ankle-breaking explosiveness. After being traded to the San Francisco 49ers, McCaffrey showcased why he’s the best RB in the NFL.
At 96 Overall, CMC has 93 Acceleration and the highest pass-catching stats of any Running Back in Madden 23. McCaffrey is so talented, you could line him up practically anywhere on the field. Slot him in as a receiver and take slants to the house. Or give him an outside run and watch the magic happen.
CMC might be the most unique weapon in the entire game, as his X-Factor ability increases fakeout rates on spins, jukes, and hurdles made after the catch. No matter if he’s rushing or catching passes, give the ball to CMC and good things will happen.
4. Josh Allen
Allen’s absurd arm strength opens up the entire field since he’s equally one of the most accurate QBs in Madden 23. His massive 6-foot-5 frame allows him to see over the top of his linemen to deliver bombs downfield. And his shifty scrambling skills make him the ultimate throw-on-the-run weapon.
His X-Factor ability further bolsters his 99 Throw Power, which adds 15+ yards of distance to his throws when he enters the zone. There’s no question that Josh Allen is a top option at the QB position, who can rush and throw for hundreds of yards in any given game.
3. Lamar Jackson
Lamar Jackson is the epitome of an overpowered Madden player. His dominance in recent Madden games reminds us of the Atlanta Falcons Mike Vick, who could scramble for a 75-yard touchdown again and again.
Lamar doesn’t have the strongest arm, nor is he as accurate as guys like Joe Burrow or Aaron Rodgers, but Jackson’s 96 Speed and 96 Acceleration allow him to be a true game-breaker. Whether it’s designed QB runs or scrambling from a collapsed pocket, Lamar’s ability to extend plays with his legs makes him one of the most enthralling QBs in video game history.
His X-Factor ability was seemingly made for him, which encourages QB rush attempts and prevents fumbles when he enters the zone. Let’s not forget that his steerable juke animations make it almost impossible to bring him down, once he breaks off for a long run. Despite his 91 Overall rating, Jackson may be the most exciting player in Madden 23.
2. Patrick Mahomes
The 98 Overall Patrick Mahomes could arguably be the number-one player on this list. With 97 Throw Power and 98 Throw on the Run, his ridiculously strong arm is guaranteed to score you touchdowns with your eyes closed.
His Bazooka X-Factor ability further bolsters his throwing power, as it adds 30 yards of distance to his passes when he enters the zone. Mahomes is an utter freak of nature. Tossing dimes while on the run has never been easier.
Mahomes is just as accurate in the pocket as he is when scrambling. Whether you pair him up with an All-Pro receiver or a sub-60-rated pass catcher, Mahomes is guaranteed to find the open man. There just aren’t many guys out there who can match his high-profile stats and make big plays like he can.
1. Tyreek Hill
Tyreek “Cheetah” Hill is the most enjoyable Wide Receiver to use in Madden history. He’s got all of the tools needed to turn a game on its head in a matter of seconds. 99 Speed, check. 99 Acceleration, double check.
Sprinkle in 94 Catching and a 98 Overall rating and you get the best offensive weapon in Madden 23. Tyreek Hill is the definition of a walking one-play touchdown. It’s simply impossible to overthrow the speedy receiver, who is capable of lighting up secondaries in several different ways.
Slants, streaks screens, posts. It doesn't matter! Just get the ball in his hands and the rest is history. Tyreek punishes Man Coverage like no other, breezing by Cornerbacks in the blink of an eye. You can also slot him into the Kick Returner and Punt Returner positions, to make Special Teams that much more exciting. At the end of the day, Tyreek Hill is the best player in Madden 23.
