Madden 26 Team of the Week 5: Dowdle & Simmons Shine

Another exciting week of NFL action is in the books, and that means a fresh batch of cards has dropped in Madden Ultimate Team. The Madden 26 Team of the Week Week 5 release celebrates the top individual performances from across the league, giving MUT players a chance to add some powerful new items to their squads. This week’s release is headlined by two dominant players who single-handedly impacted their games: Carolina Panthers running back Rico Dowdle and Tennessee Titans defensive tackle Jeffery Simmons.

LTD Champions: Rico Dowdle & Jeffery Simmons (90 OVR)

The highest-rated cards in any Team of the Week release are the Limited Edition (LTD) Champions. These 90 OVR items are only available in packs for a short time, making them some of the most sought-after cards in the game. For Week 5, the honors go to two players who were instrumental in their teams’ victories.

Rico Dowdle (RB), Carolina Panthers

Rico Dowdle put the Carolina Panthers on his back in their thrilling comeback victory against the Miami Dolphins. The former Cowboys running back had a career day, gashing the Dolphins’ defense for an incredible 206 rushing yards on an average of 9.0 yards per carry. He capped off his dominant performance with a crucial touchdown that helped seal the win. Dowdle’s blend of power and vision was on full display, making him an easy choice for the Offensive Player of the Week.

His 90 OVR LTD card will be a nightmare for opposing defenses. Expect this item to feature elite speed, acceleration, and break tackle ratings, making him one of the top running backs currently available in MUT.

Jeffery Simmons (DT), Tennessee Titans

The Tennessee Titans secured their first win of the season in a nail-biter against the Arizona Cardinals, and they have Jeffery Simmons to thank for it. The dominant defensive tackle was an unstoppable force in the trenches, consistently disrupting the Cardinals’ offense. Simmons stuffed the stat sheet with eight total tackles and 1.5 sacks, making life miserable for the opposing offensive line. His relentless pressure was key to keeping the Titans in the game.

In MUT, this 90 OVR LTD Simmons card will be a premier run-stuffer and interior pass rusher. With high ratings in strength, block shedding, and power moves, he is a must-have for any defensive line looking to control the line of scrimmage.

Offensive Heroes of the Week

Beyond the LTD Champions, several other offensive players earned upgraded cards for their standout performances.

• Sam Darnold (QB), Seattle Seahawks – 89 OVR: Darnold led the Seahawks with poise, making key throws and leading his team to a crucial win. His card will likely feature solid throwing power and accuracy, making him a reliable field general for many MUT squads.
• J.K. Dobbins (RB), Denver Broncos – 86 OVR: Dobbins showed flashes of his explosive ability, contributing significantly to the Broncos’ ground game. This card should be a well-rounded back with good speed and agility.
• Darren Waller (TE), Miami Dolphins – 84 OVR: Even in a loss, Waller was a reliable target, using his size and athleticism to create mismatches. His card will be a valuable receiving threat at the tight end position.
• Ryan Flournoy (WR), Dallas Cowboys – 81 OVR: The Cowboys’ receiver made the most of his opportunities, showcasing his speed and playmaking ability. He’ll be a solid budget option for teams needing a speedy wideout.

Defensive Heroes of the Week

These defensive players were instrumental in their teams’ efforts during Week 5, earning them a spot in the TOTW lineup.

• Kool-Aid McKinstry (CB), New Orleans Saints – 89 OVR: The Saints’ defensive back was a shutdown corner, making key plays in coverage. His 89 OVR item will likely boast excellent speed, man coverage, and zone coverage ratings.
• Jalen Pitre (S), Houston Texans – 89 OVR: Pitre was a force in the Texans’ secondary, flying all over the field to make plays against both the run and the pass. This card will be a versatile and hard-hitting safety.
• Zaire Franklin (LB), Indianapolis Colts – 86 OVR: Franklin was a tackling machine for the Colts, playing a pivotal role in their defensive effort. Look for this card to have high tackle and pursuit ratings.
• Mike Sainristil (CB), Washington Commanders – 86 OVR: Sainristil made his presence felt with lockdown coverage and timely plays, earning him a solid 86 OVR card.
• Marques Sigle (S), San Francisco 49ers – 84 OVR: Sigle contributed to a strong defensive performance for the 49ers, earning him a new 84 OVR card in MUT.
• Tyrion Ingram-Dawkins (DT), Minnesota Vikings – 81 OVR: This defensive tackle made a notable impact in the trenches, warranting his first Team of the Week appearance of the season.

Complete Madden 26 Team of the Week 5 List

Here is the full list of players who received an upgrade in the Week 5 Team of the Week release:

LTD Champions (90 OVR)

• Rico Dowdle, RB, Carolina Panthers
• Jeffery Simmons, DT, Tennessee Titans

Heroes (89 OVR)

• Kool-Aid McKinstry, CB, New Orleans Saints
• Sam Darnold, QB, Seattle Seahawks
• Jalen Pitre, S, Houston Texans

High Elites (86 OVR)

• Zaire Franklin, LB, Indianapolis Colts
• Mike Sainristil, CB, Washington Commanders
• J.K. Dobbins, RB, Denver Broncos

Elites (84 OVR)

• Marques Sigle, S, San Francisco 49ers
• Darren Waller, TE, Miami Dolphins

Golds (81 OVR)

• Tyrion Ingram-Dawkins, DT, Minnesota Vikings
• Ryan Flournoy, WR, Dallas Cowboys

The Week 5 Team of the Week brings a powerful infusion of talent into Madden Ultimate Team. Whether you’re lucky enough to pull one of the LTD champions or looking to upgrade your roster with one of the elite heroes, these new cards offer a significant boost based on real-world excellence. Get into the game, open your packs, and see if you can add one of these game-changers to your squad.