Mut 26 coins introduced several new gameplay mechanics that significantly altered how players approach offense and defense. One of the most notable additions was the read option, a play type that mirrors the growing influence of mobile quarterbacks in the NFL. The read option creates a dynamic offense, blending traditional rushing attacks with the unpredictability of a quarterback who can run or pass. For players who favor defense, however, it also poses a unique challenge: how do you effectively shut down a play designed to keep defenders guessing.

The read option, already a popular tactic in the NFL by the time Madden NFL 26 was released, saw a surge in use due to quarterbacks like Russell Wilson, Colin Kaepernick, and Robert Griffin III. This offensive scheme leverages the athleticism of the quarterback and creates a situation where the defense must react to multiple threats: the running back, the quarterback, or a potential pass.

In Madden NFL 26, EA captured this play's unpredictability, giving players the ability to execute the read option effectively. The offense's goal is to read a key defender usually the defensive end or outside linebacker—and then decide whether the quarterback should hand the ball off to the running back or keep it for himself. This decision happens quickly, and if the defense misreads the play, it can lead to huge gains for the offense.

Stopping the read option in buy mut coins requires both sound strategy and good user control. Many defensive players find it frustrating because of its ability to exploit mistakes, mispositioned players, or incorrect defensive play calls. A wrong move or bad angle, and the mobile quarterback could be running untouched for a first down or more.