I wrote this up a few months ago. Covers a few different areas, but there's a specific segment about gameplay. Here's the link and the relevant segments
https://www.forbes.com/sites/brianma.../#2764bd2d22a7
Better Awareness For CPU-Controlled Defenders
There are times when CPU-controlled defenders take unrealistically improper angles to the ball carrier. This is most apparent on outside runs. Oftentimes, they don't even appear to be attempting to avoid pulling guards, fullbacks and offensive tackles.
We don't need 100 percent pursuit from mediocre defensive players, but sometimes the angles taken by defenders aren't accurate tendencies for players on a pro level.
Better QB AI
Quarterbacks take off and run more than they have in the past, but still not quite as often as they should. QBs who are known scramblers still seem to leave the pocket only as a last resort.
QBs with strong arms who historically take multiple shots down the field aren't as daring in Madden 17 when under CPU control.
Something needs to be done to better match QBs with their real-life tendencies.
*All-Madden Passing
Playing on All-Madden shouldn't be about faster kick meters and players playing above their ratings. It should be about carrying more responsibility and not being able to depend on CPU assistance as much.
The passing game is a prime example.
Throwing to a spot rather than a receiver could make for a more realistic passing game. This would be a major undertaking that might require a complete rehaul of the passing game, but it could potentially be the most impacting change in Madden's gameplay history.
Players would still pick an intended receiver by pressing the corresponding button, but instead of throwing to the man and having it somewhat follow him like a magnet, the ball would go to a spot.
You'd have a small meter that gauged the height and wideness of the throw. The more accurate the passer, the slower the meters. You could use the triggers or back buttons to control the type of pass (bullet or touch).
Using the left stick would still allow you to throw the ball to the left, right, low or high, but depending on the situation, the window for completion would be smaller, and thus the meter would be more difficult to time.
Also, this entire timing mechanic doesn't take into account the position of a defender. This measurement is solely related to getting the ball to the spot where the receiver is, or should be headed.
User QBs in Madden would have more to think about using All-Madden passing.
Improved Line Play
Most of my gripes are with the run blocking. Sometimes it takes offensive lineman too long to decide who to block when they have what should be a clear assignment. On defense, I still feel as though defenders are sucked into blocks when they are in close proximity with offensive linemen.
This is a very difficult fix, but perhaps inserting an animation that has the blocker extend a hand to make contact with the defender could improve the visual result.
*Injuries Away From the Ball
In real football, every player is susceptible to injury. In Madden, you have to be part of a tackle sequence to get hurt (unless the game is simulated). The reason for this is the lack of off-ball injuries. It's an unfortunate aspect of real-life football, but it should be in Madden.
Better CPU Clock Management
Late in games the CPU's clock management is dreadful. From passing the ball at inopportune times, to prematurely going into run-only mode with a lead, the late-game clock management logic needs to be addressed.
Weather Should Have More Impact on the Gameplay
In rain and snow, we should see more drops, bobbles and even passes that get away from quarterbacks. The wind should affect throws, not just kicks. There should also be a little more slipping on muddy or wet fields.
Make Home-Field Advantage Matter
I like the disruption of passing symbols for QBs who are playing on the road, but a slight bump up in the attributes of players on the home team should give the proper home-field advantage.
Random Follies
Crazy plays happen in football. We need to see the random bad snap, cornerbacks falling down in coverage, personal fouls, muffed punts and other less-than-perfect plays on the gridiron.