Multiple sources say that some within EA Sports are worried the college football game series could go on hiatus again within the next five years. These are concerns about the series' long-term profitability; EA has not made a decision to cancel it.
The series ended in 2013 after the release of NCAA Football 14 due to issues surrounding the use of real players' names and likenesses. It was revived with EA SPORTS College Football 25 in 2024, following the introduction of name, image, and likeness (NIL) deals in college sports.
Sources cited by Insider Gaming state that follow-up titles for 2027 and 2028 are still in the works, with a 2029 release also possible. Current concerns mainly point to the more distant future and do not indicate a clear timeline for discontinuation.
Sources believe the series faces pressure on two fronts: while the revival's debut title performed strongly commercially, sales have declined with each subsequent release even as development costs continue to rise. The cost of using real college players' names and likenesses is reportedly nearing $20 million this year, more than double the 2024 figure. EA Sports also hopes to increase revenue through in-game purchases across various modes, but reportedly has yet to find an approach that doesn't alienate players while operating as effectively as in its other sports titles. EA's recent acquisition may also influence future decisions.