5 Madden 22 player ratings that are major head-scratchers

2. Darren Waller, TE, Raiders

Madden 22 rating: 93

Darren Waller is a human cheat code. Not only does the 6-foot-6 tight end plays like a taller wide receiver, but Waller actually had the 10th-most receiving yards in the entire league last season. For perspective, the next closest tight end was T.J. Hockenson with 723.

Look, I don’t think anyone’s praising Waller for his blocking ability, but he’s still good enough to be higher than a 93. While Waller is appropriately placed behind George Kittle and ahead of Mark Andrews, his rating doesn’t do his talents justice. I expect it to get a boost during the season.

1. Saquon Barkley, RB, Giants

Madden 22 rating: 91

Barkley’s 2020 season ended in disaster after the third-year running back tore his ACL two games into the season. He was hoping to rush for another 1,000-yard season, but instead had to watch the Giants from the sidelines. But even with Barkley missing all that time, we shouldn’t overlook his incredible skillset.

Remember this is the same player who’s been among the NFL’s top 30 players, per the annual NFL Top 100 rankings. Yet, Barkley finds himself one full point lower than his rating from Madden 21.

When will people realize how special Barkley is? It’s absurd to see him rated below Aaron Jones, who’s admittedly a very good running back in his own right. However, I don’t think many people are saying Jones — who got a 91 rating — is better than Barkley. Madden needs to get this right.