Electronic Arts Extends NFL Deal

NEW YORK (AP) -- Electronic Arts Inc. has extended its exclusive licensing pact with the NFL and NFL players to continue develop professional football video games, the company said Tuesday.

Financial terms were not disclosed. The separate deals give EA continued rights to NFL teams, stadiums and players for its games through Feb. 2013.

EA's "Madden NFL" franchise of football games turns 20 this year. It is one of the publisher's most lucrative series, generating more than $2 billion in retail sales.

Redwood City, Calif.-based EA's shares slid 2 cents to $46.33 in morning trading.

Looks like the era of EA's monopoly on everything football will continue.

Favre Retires

After 17 incredible seasons, Brett Favre has decided to call it a day. The long-groomed Aaron Rodgers now gets his chance to lead the now loaded Packers. Perhaps Green Bay's inability to pry Randy Moss away from the Pats fueled Favre's decision?

Madden '09 Cover

There are rampant rumors that Eli Manning propelled himself to be on the cover following his "heroic" performance in the Super Bowl, but other candidates loom large as well.

A strong case could be made for Sean Taylor. As most noticed, Taylor's rating actually increased in the final update, which perhaps signals EA's eventual paying of homage to the fallen stud.

Devin Hester, one of the game's most electrifying players, stands as another odds on favorite. EA typically chooses highlight reel stars; Hester could not be more aptly described.

Of course, EA could decide to honor the now retired Brett Favre. One can't altogether dismiss this as an option.

Finally, EA's cover usually has somekind of connection to new game features. Not always, but it has definitely been a trend. As more about Madden '09 is revealed, the winner will likely become obvious.