Breaking: 49ers’ Christian McCaffrey Speaks Out on ‘Madden Curse’ Following Cover Athlete Announcement…
Christian McCaffrey has been named the cover athlete for Madden 25, making him the first running back since Peyton Hillis in Madden 12 to earn this honor solo. This accolade is a significant addition to McCaffrey’s illustrious career, and he also becomes the first 49er and the first running back on a Madden cover since Barry Sanders and Adrian Peterson featured on the anniversary edition of Madden 25 in 2013.
McCaffrey joins an elite group of running backs who have graced the Madden cover, including Shaun Alexander, Marshall Faulk, and Eddie George.
While this is a prestigious honor for one of the NFL’s top playmakers, it also raises the question of the notorious “Madden Curse.” Historically, many players featured on the cover have experienced downturns in their careers or suffered injuries. Notable examples include Peyton Hillis, whose career declined rapidly, and Antonio Brown, whose tumultuous exit from the Steelers marked the beginning of a rocky period in his career.
Injuries plagued others like Faulk, Daunte Culpepper, Michael Vick, and Rob Gronkowski. However, some players, such as Ray Lewis, Calvin Johnson, and Patrick Mahomes, managed to escape the curse and continued to perform at high levels.
NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero questioned McCaffrey about his thoughts on the curse, to which McCaffrey responded with confidence, stating he is not superstitious and is simply honored to be chosen.
No, Christian McCaffrey doesn't believe in curses.
The Madden NFL 25 cover star explained why on The Insiders. pic.twitter.com/3RbY1NLJkn
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) June 12, 2024
“I’m not superstitious at all about it,” McCaffrey said. “I was so excited, man. This was such an honor. When I first got the call, I was in shock. It’s something that I just never thought would happen to me. I never thought that somebody would call and tell me I’m on the cover of Madden.
So, when I got the call, I wasn’t thinking about any curse. I was just excited. I think that stuff is kind of a myth and whatever happens, happens. But I’m excited to be on the cover.”
McCaffrey has remained healthy for the past two seasons after struggling with injuries in the two seasons before. Having shed the “injury-prone” label, it would be unfortunate for both him and the 49ers if the Madden Curse struck now. Fans hope he continues his streak of good health.
Madden 25 is set for release on August 16th, with early access available three days prior.
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