American football video game "Madden NFL's" influence has been so ubiquitous that its yearly Madden ratings have become a kind of tradition the past few years. The buzz about the game and its ratings list of players, have been especially noticeable recently, as "EA Sports" starts to drum up some momentum for the game's launch next month.

Video game developer, EA Sports, recently released their picks for top tight ends in "Madden NFL 16" and it appears that tight end, Rob Gronkowski, of the New England Patriots holds the top spot. Gronk, as his affectionately called, has solidified his status as one of the best tight ends in the NFL. The 26-year-old has gotten a rating of 99 overall with 82 speed and 94 catching in Madden NFL.

Seattle Seahawks' Jimmy Graham follows Gronkowski in Madden's list. Graham is rated 95 overall with 92 catching and 90 spectacular catch in the game. He is also given a rating of 88 for his skill in making catches through a log jam.

Third on the "Madden NFL" list is Dallas Cowboys' Jason Witten. The stalwart Cowboy tight end has been nothing but consistent, making him one of the more reliable players for his team and QB Tony Romo's usual target. The 33-year-old is rated 93 overall with 92 catch in traffic and 95 catching in the game. Witten is touted as a key part of the defense now that running back DeMarco Murray is not available.

Carolina Panthers' Greg Olsen has been making his presence felt and undoubtedly deserves a place in this list. The 30-year-old Olsen is probably one of the most underrated tight ends around but has proven himself with good solid numbers the past two seasons. It is safe to say that he is one of QB Cam Newton's go-to guys. Olsen has a 92 rating overall, with 89 catching, 87 catch in traffic, 89 jumping, 88 release and 88 spectacular catch.

Newcomer, Travis Kelce, of the Kansas City Chiefs rounds out the list. He was relatively missing in 2013 but returned and made up for lost time on the field. Kelce is rated 91 overall with 89 catching, 87 catch in traffic, 89 jumping, 88 release, 81 route running and 88 spectacular catch.

 EA Sports' "Madden NFL 16" will hit stores on Aug. 25 and will be available for Xbox One, Xbox 360, PlayStation 3 and PlayStation 4 consoles.