EA SPORTS College Football 27 will include the American Heart Association’s Paul “Bear” Bryant Award as an in-game accolade in its Dynasty Mode, continuing a partnership that began with last year’s release. The award, which recognizes the National Coach of the Year, joins other prestigious honors such as the Heisman Trophy, Lou Groza Award, Lombardi Award, Unitas Golden Arm Award, and Broyles Award in the game.
“We’re in the game: Bear Bryant Award returns to EA SPORTS College Football 27,” the American Heart Association announced in a press release. The inclusion of the award is part of broader efforts by the American Heart Association to celebrate college football coaches who embody Coach Bryant’s legacy and principles of excellence, while engaging fans inspired by his leadership and character.
The Paul “Bear” Bryant Awards, now in their 41st year, annually present multiple honors including the Heart of a Champion Award, Lifetime Achievement Award, Newcomer Coach of the Year Award, and Conference Coach of the Year Awards, alongside the National Coach of the Year Award. Indiana’s Curt Cignetti was the 2025 recipient, and the 2026 winner will be announced at a ceremony in Houston, Texas on January 27, 2027. The award is voted on by the National Sports Media Association, current NCAA coaches, former winners, the awards’ Executive Leadership Team, and the Bryant family. It is the only college football coaching honor selected after the national champion has been determined.
Paul “Bear” Bryant’s storied career began in 1913 in Moro Bottom, Arkansas, and included head coaching stints at the University of Maryland (1945), University of Kentucky (1946-53), Texas A&M (1954-57), and the University of Alabama (1958-82). He amassed 323 wins, 85 losses, and 17 ties, with six national championships, 14 SEC Championships, and one Southwest Conference championship. A three-time AFCA Coach of the Year and 12-time SEC Coach of the Year, Bryant died of a heart attack on January 26, 1983. After his passing, the Bryant family and the American Heart Association collaborated to preserve his legacy, raise funds for scientific research, and increase awareness about heart disease and stroke.
EA SPORTS College Football 27 is scheduled for release on July 9. For more information on the American Heart Association Paul “Bear” Bryant Awards, visit www.bryantawards.org.
