More than 500 player movements and changes comprise Madden NFL 11's final pre-season roster update, which is now live for both Xbox 360 and PS3.
The moves account for a lively NFL training camp period. In addition to the usual trades and releases (232 cut), the game added 165 players to its overall roster.
The update also reflects real-life developments, such as Dennis Dixon taking over as Pittsburgh's starting quarterback during Ben Roethlisberger's suspension; removing teammate Santonio Holmes from the depth chart, also for a suspension; Derek Anderson taking over as the Cardinals' starting quarterback, in light of Matt Leinart's release; and Seahawk Mike Williams' comeback story - moving to No. 1 in Seattle's receiving corps.
Thirty-nine players moved up or down in overall rating, usually two to three points. The biggest ratings decrease was for Pittsburgh receiver Emmanuel Sanders, dropping to 62 from 66. The biggest gains were enjoyed by Colin Allred, Tennessee linebacker, and Matt Flynn, Green Bay quarterback, both increasing from 57 to 66. Among players higher on the depth charts, St, Louis safety Craig Dahl went up eight points overall, to 75 from 67.
The roster is not automatically downloaded, like a patch. To get it, select "Online," then "Madden NFL Online" and then "Download Roster" from the "Rosters" menu in the Online interface.
The NFL opened last night with New Orleans defeating Minnesota 14-9. The rest of its regular season openers will follow on Sunday and Monday. To celebrate the new season, Madden NFL 11 is offering multiplayer scouting reports for free beginning today through the entire weekend.