Madden 16: Player Ratings for Most Exciting Rookies to Use in Video Game

One of the surest signs the new NFL season is right around the corner is the annual Madden release. This year's edition, Madden NFL 16, is set to drop on Aug. 25 with New York Giants rising star Odell Beckham Jr. on the cover.

Although there are always a variety of new and updated features for gamers to check out, getting a chance to play with the incoming rookies is always a top attraction. Beckham fell into that category just one year ago.

So let's check out the best rookies in the newest edition of the popular video game, along with a breakdown of some of the most intriguing options to use right away. To check out all of the released rating information, visit EA Sports' official site.

Top 10 Rookie Ratings

Rank	Player	Position	Team	Overall
1	Amari Cooper	WR	OAK	82
2	Jameis Winston	QB	TB	81
T-3	Todd Gurley	RB	STL	80
T-3	Leonard Williams	DE	NYJ	80
T-3	Brandon Scherff	OT	WSH	80
6	Dante Fowler	DE	JAX	79
T-7	Melvin Gordon	RB	SD	78
T-7	Kevin White	WR	CHI	78
T-7	Marcus Mariota	QB	TEN	78
10	Vic Beasley	DE	ATL	77

Most Exciting In-Game Potential

Jameis Winston (QB—Tampa Bay Buccaneers)

The first overall pick features all of the physical tools necessary to shine in both the real and virtual worlds. He's got outstanding arm strength, solid accuracy on the short and intermediate routes, and when all else fails, he can take off and use his legs to make plays.

Winston enters an offense with two proven targets in Vincent Jackson and Mike Evans. Tight end Austin Seferian-Jenkins also figures to play a major role in the Madden realm, thanks to his size and athleticism, even if he's still a year or two from figuring it all out for the Bucs.

The biggest question for Winston at the NFL level will be his decision-making ability. The pro game moves a lot quicker, so there will undoubtedly be a learning curve. That's obviously not a concern for longtime Madden gamers, though.

Marcus Mariota, the second overall pick, doesn't have quite as many weapons at his disposal with the Tennessee Titans. He's also more of a conservative, accurate player than Winston, which is why the Florida State product is more enticing from a video game perspective.

Todd Gurley (RB—St. Louis Rams)

The Rams are wisely going to play it safe with Gurley. He's working his way back from a torn ACL, and it's going to take a while before he's back to full speed. There won't be any waiting in Madden, however, as he'll be ready to roll right away.

No other running back in the class can match his combination of power and quickness. He's capable of crashing into the middle of the line to pick up the hard yards, but can also take it around the edge for a big gain. He's also a reliable receiver, with 37 catches and six touchdowns at Georgia in 2013.

Gurley was happy with his first rating in the franchise stating, "I think that's pretty good for a rookie," according to Austin Lankford of the Rams' official site. He also gave gamers some potentially useful insight: "I think my signature move is my stiff arm."

Although passing is usually king in Madden, it's still fun to see a running back take a handoff and break off a big play after breaking a few tackles. Gurley has the strength to fight through the first wave of defenders and the acceleration to run past the rest.

Vic Beasley (DE—Atlanta Falcons)

The Falcons finished tied for 30th in sacks last season with just 22 in 16 regular-season games. In turn, it came as no surprise when they grabbed Beasley in the first round. He's going to be thrusted into a major role right out of the gate.

He's still a bit raw in terms of his technique. He'll benefit from learning more pass-rushing moves over his first couple years at the NFL level. That said, the most important element for Madden players is his terrific speed off the edge.

Just like the real world, getting after the opposing quarterback is vital to success. If you allow the quarterback to stand tall in the pocket for more than a few seconds, somebody is going to run open. Beasley is a game-changer for the virtual Falcons in that regard.

The Falcons have long been built on their star-studded offense led by Matt Ryan, Julio Jones and Roddy White. Their defense has held them back, though. If Beasley is as good as advertised, they will become a more popular Madden team choice.