Madden 23 Defensive Ends Ratings: My Ultimate Gamer Review

Hi fellow gamers! 🏈 As a die-hard Madden enthusiast, I still get chills thinking back to 2022 when Madden 23 hit the shelves. That year, the defensive ends ratings were absolutely mind-blowing, and even now in 2025, I find myself revisiting those classic stats for nostalgia. The official EA ratings, revealed during ESPN's Ratings Week, showcased some true beasts on the edge, with Myles Garrett and Aaron Donald leading the pack as 99 OVR monsters—talk about dominance! 😱 I remember spending hours analyzing each player's strengths, and today, I want to share my personal take on the top performers, based entirely on the original data. It's incredible how these ratings shaped our gameplay strategies, making every sack and tackle feel so realistic. Whether you're a new player or a seasoned vet like me, this trip down memory lane is pure gold. Let's dive in!

First off, the Madden 23 ratings combined edge rushers into one category, including both defensive ends and outside linebackers, but for this piece, I'm focusing purely on the defensive ends. EA's database was packed with details, and I've handpicked the crème de la crème. The top dogs? Myles Garrett and Aaron Donald tied at 99 OVR for right defensive end—unbelievable power! Cameron Jordan stole the show as the best left defensive end at 90 OVR. Here's a quick snapshot of the absolute elite from that year:

• Myles Garrett (RE, Cleveland Browns): 99 OVR – Pure terror on the field! His speed and strength made him unstoppable.

• Aaron Donald (RE, Los Angeles Rams): 99 OVR – A legend with unmatched agility. Still gives me nightmares in game simulations! 😅

• Nick Bosa (RE, San Francisco 49ers): 94 OVR – Relentless pressure and finesse moves.

• Cameron Heyward (RE, Pittsburgh Steelers): 93 OVR – Rock-solid against the run.

• Von Miller (RE, Buffalo Bills): 92 OVR – Veteran savvy with killer instincts.

But it wasn't just about the top few; the depth was insane. I've compiled a handy table of the top 15 defensive ends to help you visualize their ratings. This is perfect for building your ultimate team in franchise mode:

Moving down the list, players like Denico Autry at 79 OVR brought serious heat. I recall one game where his sack animations were just chef's kiss! 👌 Here's a moment that captured his intensity perfectly:

For those building a balanced defense, don't overlook the mid-tier stars. Guys like Yannick Ngakoue at 82 OVR were absolute steals in online matches. His quickness off the edge could turn the tide in close games. Check out this iconic pre-game shot—pure focus! 🧠

Now, let's talk strategy. Based on my experience, here's how I leveraged these ratings in Madden 23:

1. For pass rush dominance: Always start with high-OVR REs like Garrett or Donald. Their 99 ratings meant instant pressure, forcing QBs into mistakes. I'd pair them with a speedy LE like Chase Young (86 OVR) for a deadly combo.

2. Run defense essentials: Use players like Cameron Heyward (93 OVR) to plug gaps. His high strength rating was a game-changer against power backs.

3. Budget picks: If you're short on coins, target undervalued gems. For example, Montez Sweat at 80 OVR was a beast for his price—affordable yet effective! 💸

Reflecting on 2025, it's wild how Madden 23 set the bar. Even with newer releases, those 2022 ratings feel timeless. What about you? Did you have a favorite DE from that era? Drop your thoughts below—I'd love to hear your stories! 👇 And remember, gaming is all about fun and community. Until next time, keep dominating the virtual field! 🎮✨