Overview
- EA confirmed Williams as the Madden NFL 27 cover athlete on Monday, making him the first Chicago Bears player to appear on a primary Madden cover.
- Williams said he chose his viral 'Jumpman' throw pose for the cover to pay respect to Michael Jordan and Chicago’s sporting history.
- He publicly rejected the so‑called 'Madden curse,' saying the team will prioritize staying healthy, studying film and preparing each week.
- The cover capstones Williams’ breakout 2025 season, which included 3,942 passing yards, 27 touchdowns and a wild‑card comeback that produced the Jumpman moment.
- Reporting highlights mixed fan reaction and historical context, with CBS Sports noting 14 of 24 past cover athletes through 2024 experienced setbacks after appearing on Madden.