It was also announced that EA was working extensively on aesthetics, with new player spotlights, dynamic goals and achievements, and innovative on and off-the-field cameras.

[3] EA decided not to have players vote for the cover athlete through a traditional bracket, but rather through collectible cards in Madden NFL Mobile, or through Ultimate Team on the console devices.

On May 4, 2015, the four finalists were announced for the 2016 game cover: New England Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski, Arizona Cardinals cornerback Patrick Peterson, New York Giants wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr., and Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Antonio Brown.

[5] The original score of Madden NFL 15 composed by Mark Petrie could also be played in-game via the EA Trax option.

Madden NFL 16 received positive reviews from critics, with many noting its improvements to the passing game, as well as the addition of the new Draft Champions mode.