The 2026 NRL season is shaping up to be one of the most unpredictable in recent memory, and it’s anyone’s guess who will come out on top. With defending minor premiers Canberra, the ever-reliable Cronulla, the rapidly improving Dolphins, and the awakening giant in Canterbury all vying for a spot in the top four, the stage is set for a thrilling 27 rounds of rugby league action. But here’s where it gets controversial: are the Panthers and Storm past their prime?
Both powerhouse clubs stumbled in 2025, with the Panthers grappling with key departures and a slow start, while the Storm’s defense faltered throughout the season. Fast forward to 2026, and Melbourne looks like a different team. Eli Katoa’s head injury, coupled with the exits of Nelson Asofa-Solomona and Ryan Papenhuyzen, has left a void. Local talent Sua Fa’alogo brings speed to the fullback position, but his first full season in the No. 1 jersey will be a true test. The club’s inability to sign Zac Lomax, thanks to Xavier Coates’ Achilles injury, adds another layer of challenge. Keep an eye out for mid-season signings, as Melbourne’s cap space could spark some surprising moves.
Penrith, on the other hand, has enjoyed its most stable off-season in years. Instead of losing stars, they’ve re-signed Jack Cogger, a key player from their 2023 grand final triumph, to bolster their spine. Rising talents like Blaize Talagi, the dynamic five-eighth who’s finally found his footing under Ivan Cleary, and Casey McLean, who’s drawing comparisons to Stephen Crichton, could be game-changers. But will it be enough to reclaim their former glory?
And this is the part most people miss: how will Payne Haas fare in his final season with the Broncos? Michael Maguire’s premiership-winning team faces a unique challenge, as their star forward is already committed to Souths for 2027. Haas, a workhorse who’s logged countless minutes in his eight NRL seasons, has battled knee, foot, and back injuries in recent years. Maguire’s demanding coaching style, which often pushes players to their physical limits, adds another layer of complexity. With Haas already playing a full 80 minutes in the World Club Challenge loss to Hull KR, finding the right balance between performance and rest will be crucial. Can Maguire manage Haas effectively, or will the pressure of a premiership defense take its toll?
Meanwhile, is Daly Cherry-Evans still a game-changer at 37? The Roosters, led by Dally M-winning fullback James Tedesco, are banking on their off-season signings to propel them forward. Reece Robson’s arrival adds much-needed stability, but Cherry-Evans’ move to the tricolours is a risky gamble. With Sam Walker holding the halfback reins, Cherry-Evans is relegated to a supporting role, relying on his experience and kicking prowess. Can Trent Robinson integrate both playmakers into a side that leaned heavily on attack last season, or will it backfire?
Off the field, the NRL is on the cusp of a record-breaking TV deal, with negotiations heating up. But here’s the catch: can the rugby league family stay out of trouble long enough to seal the deal? A slow start to the season or player controversies could spook advertisers, potentially derailing the game’s biggest revenue opportunity. With Dazn’s recent cost-cutting measures and the NRL’s provincial reputation, the global appeal narrative may not be enough to secure a $4bn deal. Will local competition and free-to-air partnerships save the day?
Lastly, who will emerge as the Dally M lawyer of the year? From Zac Lomax’s legal battle with Parramatta to Manly’s court cases over player treatment, the off-field drama is as intense as the on-field action. With a new broadcast deal and collective bargaining agreement on the horizon, corporate law firms are gearing up for a busy year. But will the suits overshadow the players in 2026?
As the season kicks off, one thing is clear: this year is about more than just rugby league—it’s about legacy, controversy, and the future of the game. What’s your take? Are the Panthers and Storm truly past their prime, or will they rise again? And can the NRL family behave long enough to secure its future? Let’s hear your thoughts in the comments!
