Clearly, it’s not just a game.
NFL players are not only aware of how Madden NFL 19 ranks them, but they have salty reactions that spill onto social media.
This week, several Pro Bowlers have weighed in on their place in the ranking system, which rates players from 0 to 100.
Madden’s reach is undeniable among players who often man the controllers and compete against each other.
Take All-Pro Steelers defensive end Cam Heyward, who was diplomatic about his Pro Bowl snub during the regular season but called his 88 Madden rating a "joke" on Twitter.