The Madden 99 club has become a yearly tradition for the most talented players around the NFL. Following the passing of the legendary John Madden, it was announced he would be on the cover of Madden 23. With its official introduction in 2019, the 99 club has showcased the likes of Aaron Donald, Tom Brady, Patrick Mahomes, and others who have dominated the gridiron. This year, the latest iteration of Madden will release on Aug. 19. With that said, let’s go through some of the confirmed players of the 99 club, players we think might make it as well as some Madden 23 ratings predictions.
Madden 23 ratings predictions and 99 club players
Confirmed: Trent Williams
San Francisco 49ers OL Trent Williams was the first confirmation for a player joining the 99 club. Additionally, Williams was informed in person that he would become the first OL ever to be inducted into the club.
Madden has had 99 overall OL in the past, but with the club officially being created in 2019, Williams became the first player at his position to receive the distinction. This is a well-deserved addition to the club as Williams has consistently been one of the best offensive linemen in the NFL. Selecting someone on the offensive line early in your Madden fantasy draft may not be the most appealing, but your blindside will be safe for years to come.
Confirmed: Davante Adams
A change of scenery for Davante Adams, but he remains on the Madden 99 club in 2023. The confirmation was revealed on Madden 23’s official Twitter account. This is the second time Adams has appeared on the list after receiving the honor in Madden 22.
The NFL world was shocked when the Green Bay Packers decided to trade Adams to the Las Vegas Raiders in March. After an illustrious eight seasons in Green Bay, Adams heads to Vegas to reunite with his friend and former college teammate, Derek Carr. From a Madden perspective, the Raiders’ offense should be fireworks. With Adams, Darren Waller, and Hunter Renfrow in the passing game, gamers should have a blast competing in the ultra-competitive AFC West.
Prediction: Aaron Donald
Aaron Donald not being in the 99 club for the upcoming Madden would be far more shocking than the alternative. One of the greatest players of his generation, Donald should have no issue making his fourth straight appearance on the list.
The Los Angeles Rams DL wrecks just as much havoc in the video game as he does on the actual field. Donald gives opposing QBs headaches and gives gamers an urge to drop their controller and walk away. The game’s mechanics allow for an enjoyable experience when playing on the DL, and Madden 23 should be no different for Donald’s dominance.
Prediction: Patrick Mahomes
Patrick Mahomes embodies a video game QB. His arm talent is next to none and is extremely fun to use in the game. Recently, Madden introduced X-factor abilities into the franchise, and Mahomes was deservedly given the “Bazooka” ability. This trait displays his arm strength and gives gamers the opportunity to feel what it’s like to sling the ball like the Chiefs QB.
Mahomes was a member of the 99 club in the last two games, and with his continued stellar play, he should remain on the list. There are players that really bring the best out of the Madden franchise, and he’s one of them.
Prediction: Aaron Rodgers
There’s not much more a player can do to join the 99 club than have back-to-back MVP trophies. Aaron Rodgers has been spectacular throughout his career, but these last two seasons have been something to behold.
A true gunslinger on the field, Rodgers is just as fun to use in the game. Although the Packers’ offense may not be as dangerous with Adams gone, the additions of Christian Watson, Romeo Doubs, and Samori Toure could allow you to build a solid young core in franchise mode. Rodgers is undoubtedly one of the best to play at his position, and he should be rewarded with another selection on the list.
Prediction: T.J. Watt
Pittsburgh Steelers EDGE T.J. Watt has been a beast since entering the league and last year was even better. He tied the single-season sack record set by Michael Strahan. That, combined with a Defensive Player of the Year award, should easily have Watt find his way into the 99 club.
In the Madden franchise, if you lack the proper offensive line, a great pass rusher will create serious problems. The game succeeds in this area as it causes the user to make quick decisions in the passing game or your QB will be on the ground quick. Our Madden 23 ratings predictions see Watt having no issue making it to the 99 club this season. Once franchise mode comes around, most of these guys will fly off the board fast!
Confirmed top 5 Madden 23 WRs
1) Davante Adams – 99 OVR
2) Cooper Kupp – 98 OVR
3) Tyreek Hill – 97 OVR
4) DeAndre Hopkins – 96 OVR
5) Stefon Diggs – 95 OVR
Predicted top 5 Madden 23 QBs
1) Aaron Rodgers – 99 OVR
2) Patrick Mahomes – 99 OVR
3) Tom Brady – 98 OVR
4) Josh Allen – 96 OVR
5) Justin Herbert – 94 OVR
Predicted top 5 Madden 23 RBs
1) Jonathan Taylor – 97 OVR
2) Derrick Henry – 96 OVR
3) Christian McCaffrey – 95 OVR
4) Dalvin Cook – 94 OVR
5) Nick Chubb – 94 OVR