With the regular season now over, eight teams remain in the hunt for the premiership but for the other nine attention will quickly turn to 2027.

It was a stunning fall from grace for last year’s title contenders, with all of the top four teams missing the finals as the defending champions tumbled down the ladder.

But the Broncos aren’t the only team facing big questions entering summer.

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Here, foxsports.com.au reviews all the eliminated teams’ seasons and looks at the key roster calls they will have to make in our 2026 Brutal Reviews!

9. SEA EAGLES

RECORD: 11-13

GRADE: C

WHAT WENT RIGHT: At least at first, the Sea Eagles seemed to find their groove under new coach Kieran Foran. It didn’t look like it was a case of a new change bringing fresh energy that would quickly wear off either. Instead, Foran had the Sea Eagles playing fast and direct. He simplified the game plan. Manly had been intent on spreading the ball inside its own half under Anthony Seibold, but that wasn’t necessarily conducive to success in the fast-paced version of the NRL that led to faster rucks and rewarded a more centralised play style. Foran and the Sea Eagles originally had success leaning into that, with Luke Brooks in particular enjoying a career-best stretch before going down with an ACL injury.

WHAT WENT WRONG: That Brooks injury, however, was the beginning of the end for Manly. Sure, Tom Trbojevic went down too and that was a massive blow. But the Sea Eagles had cover in Clayton Faulalo. But then he suffered a hamstring injury as well. It was the injuries up front that really hurt though. That new playing style the Sea Eagles were previously thriving under no longer worked because their forward pack was simply getting outmatched. In turn, that exposed just how frail Manly’s roster was. At full-strength, this was a team capable of pushing the top teams in the competition. Just look at the way the Sea Eagles pushed the Panthers earlier this year at the peak of their powers. Once the injuries piled up, they simply didn’t have the depth to compete.

It has been a tough year for Manly. (Photo by Hannah Peters/Getty Images)Source: Getty Images

WHAT THEY NEED: With that in mind, the Sea Eagles need more NRL-ready replacements should injuries strike again in 2027. That is easier said than done though as most of their 2027 roster is already in place, so Foran doesn’t have much scope to make major changes for next year. Instead, he will need to be patient and make some brutal roster calls along the way as he targets 2028 as the year the Sea Eagles can challenge for the top eight. Sure, the finals should still be the expectation for next year. There is enough talent on the roster if healthy. But that is a big if. Foran also needs to work out what his halves pairing is moving forward. Joey Walsh showed enough glimpses this year to suggest he is the club’s future, but Brooks was in scintillating form before injury cut this year short. Will Brooks look the same, particularly taking on the line, when he returns from injury? And if not, could it see him become the odd man out or could a move to hooker/utility even be on the cards? And if Jamal Fogarty instead isn’t the one who delivers, would Foran have it in him to bench the team’s big-money recruit? It makes for a very interesting 2027.

Kieran Foran has some big calls to make. (Photo by Cameron Spencer/Getty Images)Source: Getty Images

ROSTER STATE OF PLAY

Players off contract end of 2027: Luke Brooks, Zach Dockar-Clay, Hugo Hart, Lehi Hopoate, Onitoni Large, Zaidas Muagututia, Caleb Navale, Ben Trbojevic, Jake Trbojevic, Tom Trbojevic, Corey Waddell, Navren Willett, Blake Wilson

Analysis: All three Trbojevic brothers will be on the open market. Jake will likely retire after 2027, but what will happen with the best of the trio, Tom? He suffered yet another hamstring injury earlier in the season and has young guns Lehi Hopoate and Tolutau Koula who can play fullback. Tom’s a club legend and will be 31 when the 2028 season starts and Manly will be wary that other clubs may come for Hopoate if Turbo is re-signed. Younger brother Ben is just 24 and an established player in the starting side and will no doubt want to extend his deal. Luke Brooks is recovering from an ACL injury and with the emergence of Joey Walsh, he might be looking for a new home.

Key target: They need a prop. The biggest name on the market to target would be Xavier Willison. The Sea Eagles can’t just settle for a solid name. They need a genuine upgrade. A game-breaker who can change the way their forward pack looks and feels. Willison is that, and is young enough that he offers legitimate upside for at least the next five years. It’ll come at a cost, but that is where difficult decisions around the likes of Tom Trbojevic could help free up money for the Sea Eagles to take a big swing.

10. STORM

RECORD: 11-13

GRADE: C

WHAT WENT RIGHT: Cooper Clarke has been excellent for the Storm in his debut season, and quite rightly looms as a contender for the NRL’s Rookie of the Year. The 20-year-old had never played in the back row until this year, making the leap from Jersey Flegg straight into first grade and never looking back. The other bright spot on the Melbourne campaign has been the emergence of Victorian junior Sua Fa’alogo. Tasked with taking over the iconic number 1 jersey following the departure of former fullback Ryan Papenhuyzen, Fa’alogo has been a strong addition to the Storm’s attack with blistering speed and elusive footwork. With former great Billy Slater helping him behind the scenes, the 20-year-old will only continue to get better for Craig Bellamy’s side.

WHAT WENT WRONG: There was a sense the Storm’s 2026 campaign had unravelled before it even began – such was the extent of injuries and setbacks through the pre-season and opening weeks of their year. The perennial finalists missed the top eight for the first time in 16 years; first, Ryan Papenhuyzen announced his retirement at the end of 2025, then Eli Katoa was ruled out the entire year after suffering a brain bleed, Xavier Coates campaign came crashing down after a season-ending Achilles injury, and Tui Kamikamica suffered a stroke in March and had to make an immediate medical retirement from the game. There were more setbacks as the year went on, with Will Warbrick, Harry Grant, Cameron Munster and Jarome Hughes all suffering some form of injury through the season. Even when the Storm’s spine was intact, the consensus was that individual player form was down. And while the side did its best to rally around Craig Bellamy after a neurodegenerative disorder diagnosis in April, they couldn’t quite bridge the gap to the top eight.

Xavier Coates was struck down by injury. (Photo by Cameron Spencer/Getty Images)Source: Getty Images

WHAT THEY NEED: For starters, a healthy roster. This feels like it is going to be a blip on the radar as opposed to a sudden downfall for the Storm, especially with Craig Bellamy going around with the clipboard for another year. Sure, there are question marks beyond 2027. Namely, does Cameron Munster stick around? But until then this is a team that still boasts a first-class spine featuring Munster, Jahrome Hughes, Sua Fa’alogo and Harry Grant. They also have emerging talent including Hayden Watson waiting in the wings if needed, so the Storm are well set up now and into the future. If anything, and more on this later from a roster-building standpoint, the Storm could do with a consistent presence up front. That means potentially going to the market to land a forward who can intimidate rival teams. Stefano Utoikamanu has shown glimpses but lacked the consistency to be that guy on a weekly basis.

ROSTER STATE OF PLAY

Players off contract end of 2027: Xavier Coates, Jack Howarth, Eliesa Katoa, Josh King, Moses Leo, Ativalu Lisati, Cameron Munster, Josiah Pahulu, Stefano Utoikamanu, Manaia Waitere

Analysis: A bunch of stars can talk with rivals clubs from November 1 including Cameron Munster, Xavier Coates, Stefano Utoikamanu. They’re desperate for big bodies in the middle so Utoikamanu should be prioritised as he’s played pretty well for them since coming over from the Tigers. The future of Eliesa Katoa will be a big talking point in the off-season. He was ruled out for the entire 2026 season after suffering a life-threatening brain bleed while playing for Tonga last year. He’s been an irreplaceable loss for the Storm this season. If he’s cleared to make a comeback they need him. Coates is another important one because the Storm are desperate for big flyers out wide and lose Will Warbrick to the Warriors in 2027. Munster, meanwhile, reportedly knocked back the Storm’s two-year extension offer worth $1.5 million and he is now set to test the open market.

Key target: They don’t tend to spend big on players from other clubs, but rather get undervalued footballers and turn them into better players. In saying that, they need a prop badly. Since Nelson Asofa-Solomona left the club they’ve struggled to intimidate opposition forward packs. Spencer Leniu and Jackson Ford would complement the team well and give their champion spine chances to put points on the board. Sharks backrower Teig Wilton would be a good option to beef-up the pack.

11. RAIDERS

RECORD: 11-13

GRADE: C-

WHAT WENT RIGHT: It’s hard to say much went right after going from minor premiers the previous season to missing the finals 12 months later. Despite knowing they were out of finals contention a few weeks ago, they’ve still had their moments and beat the Sharks on the road and have maintained the league’s best completion rate (84.8%). It was highlighted in their Round 10 match against Penrith when they completed at 100 per cent in the first half. The emergence of halfback Ethan Sanders has been a bright spot. He had 18 try assists and won a few games on his own which is tough to do for a young No. 7. He’ll only improve along with the rest of the spine which is very young and includes recent debutant Cody Black, who gave Ricky Stuart plenty to think about in the off-season after firing against the Cowboys. So while they’ve struggled this year, the Raiders have ensured their most important players are all on the way up. Sanders, Weekes, Strange and Pattie are under 25 and with it all ahead of them so there’s potential for the footy side to not only get back into the finals next season, but stay there for years to come.

WHAT WENT WRONG: Their discipline has let them down badly at times. They’ve conceded the fifth-most penalties of any side this year so what’s hurting them is completely unnecessary. It’s in their control and they’ve simply refused to address it. As they’ve slid down the ladder this season their defence has naturally worsened and they’re conceding just shy of 26 points per game – five more points per week than last season. Surprisingly, it’s been their form at home that’s really hurt them. They’ve won just five of 12 games at GIO Stadium which, historically, has been a fortress. Their disappointing home form was highlighted two weeks ago when they lost to the hapless Broncos in front of 20,000 fans who turned up for Josh Papalii’s farewell game. In 2027, they’ve got to make sure rival teams once again dread the trip to the chilly nation’s capital.

Ricky Stuart has plenty to work on with the Raiders. (Photo by Ian Hitchcock/Getty Images)Source: Getty Images

WHAT THEY NEED: They need to clear their heads and forget about 2025. They worked so hard to win the minor premiership before being bundled out in straight sets and at times this year they’ve looked like a team that’s still thinking about that. Mentally, climbing the mountain again in 2026 has proved too hard for the young squad. They need to make sure those scars have healed or they will continue to play like a frustrated team and display poor discipline. They also need time. The spine players will likely peak in a few more years, although Strange has already proved himself at State of Origin level. Signing a quality middle forward is also a must.

ROSTER STATE OF PLAY

Players off contract at the end of 2027: Sebastian Kris, Myles Martin, Matty Nicholson, Ethan Sanders, Xavier Savage, Tom Starling, Chevy Stewart, Hudson Young

Analysis: Superstar back-rower Hudson Young has indicated he’d like to remain in the nation’s capital and sign an extension, but was initially set to be given a week to tour PNG and talk with the Chiefs. Instead, those plans were scratched with PNG’s likely offer to Young ruled below market value. It was a big boost for the Raiders given every player that has toured the PNG facilities has ended up signing with the Chiefs. Young should be the club’s first retention target. He’s gone from strength to strength each season and is the heartbeat of the Raiders’ forward pack. There have been some growing pains but Ethan Sanders has shown glimpses throughout his rookie season. If the Raiders are willing to be patient with Sanders, he has the tools to become a special player, but the club probably aren’t in any rush to re-sign the young gun. The final two months of the season could be important. If Sanders regresses, perhaps Canberra will think to look elsewhere and allow the halfback hit the open market. Matty Nicholson has been terrific for Canberra when he’s seen the field but his body has let him down. Xavier Savage is a game-breaker on his day but hasn’t shown it enough in 2026. His best football is still in front of him so he should be a key retention target for the Raiders. Owen Pattie is the club’s hooker of the future so if Tom Starling is happy to play second fiddle, he may stay at a cut-price deal.

Hudson Young’s future is a big talking point. Picture: NRL PhotosSource: Supplied

Key target: The Raiders do boast one of the NRL’s best forward packs, but Josh Papalii is leaving the club at the end of this season as are Corey Horsburgh and Morgan Smithies who are both joining the Perth Bears. So the Raiders need a gun middle forward to replace the two Origin props and English international. And if Young leaves for the Chiefs they may consider an edge forward replacement and they’ll have the cap space. The middle forward they could go after is Penrith’s four-time premiership winner Moses Leota. He’s still playing very well and would bring great experience to a forward pack without Papalii. But if they want a young prop, Tigers big man Fonua Pole, 24, is a top option. His numbers just get better each season and he’s about to hit his peak years. He’s also quite reliable, playing more than 20 games a season in each of the past three years.

12. BULLDOGS

RECORD: 11-13

GRADE: D

WHAT WENT RIGHT: No man has endured more pressure, spotlight and intense scrutiny at Canterbury this year than halfback Lachlan Galvin. But to his credit, the 21-year-old remained a bright spot on the Dogs up-again, down-again 2026 campaign. Galvin not only survived another year of unwanted publicity, the rising half arguably emerged as the Bulldogs’ most consistent player – heaping praise from the likes of Nathan Cleary along the way for his effort and development as a half. Galvin’s combination with edge back rower Jacob Preston offers plenty of promise for the season’s ahead, and with Stephen Crichton helping streamline his communication at halfback, there is no reason why Galvin won’t continue to flourish as he adapts to top-tier NRL – be that at halfback or at five-eighth, where most pundits believe is his natural position as a running playmaker. Otherwise, the Bulldogs’ middle continues to improve through 2026, with their signature line speed and tight defensive structures offering plenty to build on next year. It was a breakout season for Sitili Tupouniua despite injury, Jacob Preston (recently extended), Viliame Kikau and Leo Thompson – who each brought muscle to the Dogs’ middle. Matt Burton’s shift to centres also warmed as the season went on – though the absence of his signature spiral kicks in attack feels like a wasted opportunity.

Galvin impressed. (Photo by Darrian Traynor/Getty Images)Source: Getty Images

WHAT WENT WRONG: Despite Galvin’s best efforts every time he pulled on the famous Canterbury jersey, the reality is that the spine around him needs work – and pronto. Fullback Connor Tracey – a skilful player that gives his all in every contest – simply lacks the versatility required from the modern custodian, while the ever-improving hooker Bailey Hayward isn’t a patch on what Reid Mahoney provided the Dogs in 2025. While the Stephen Crichton experiment did help streamline the Dogs’ communication in attack, he is regarded as one of the world’s best centres for a reason – and needs to be moved back on the edge to bolster the Dogs attacking and defensive structures. Crichton’s kicking game also missed the mark at times for a five-eighth. Combined, the Dogs’ so-so spine meant the side never truly clicked in attack – especially on fifth-tackle options, when the chips were down and the side needed points.

WHAT THEY NEED: Put simply, the Dogs need a dedicated halfback that they can build the team around. That could come in two forms: bring in an established half who can help orchestrate new attacking systems and bring the most out of Lachlan Galvin, or instil trust and patience in one of the club’s burgeoning playmakers (Mitchell Woods is the club’s most likely future breakout star), and give him sufficient time to build in first grade, learn the systems and complement Galvin. Some will argue that Canterbury also need to search for a new fullback and hooker to bolster their systems, but a specialist half is an excellent starting point. Given the dearth of halfbacks on the open market, developing one of their own seems a more viable option.

Who are the long-term halves? (Photo by Darrian Traynor/Getty Images)Source: Getty Images

ROSTER STATE OF PLAY

Players off contract end of 2027: Matt Burton, Gordon Chan Kum Tong, Alekolasimi Jones, Max King, Sean O’Sullivan, Jethro Rinakama, Jaeman Salmon, Logan Spinks, Mitchell Woods

Analysis: The club has extended Jacob Preston so now attention quickly turns to Matt Burton. The club has indicated to Burton that his next contract offer will resemble that of a centre and not a five-eighth so that means a pay cut. Burton will no doubt be offered more from other clubs like Parramatta who are rumoured to be pencilling him in to be Jarome Luai’s replacement at six. Coach Cameron Ciraldo spoke of Jethro Rinakama being a 10-year Bulldog earlier in the year. Max King emerged as a State of Origin player under Ciraldo and the Dogs need to lock down their props, however he has been linked heavily to the Chiefs. Mitchell Woods has had a dreaded run with injury but if he can overcome them he’s seen as the long-term halfback to partner Lachlan Galvin in the halves.

Key target: They need a ball-playing lock. There’s not many out there, however. Souths youngster Tallis Duncan has already proven he can play at a high standard in the forwards or backs. But he will cost a fair bit given he is a man in demand and South Sydney is very keen to keep him. Otherwise, if Woods can’t stay healthy the Bulldogs will definitely be in the market for a halfback. Stephen Crichton isn’t the long-term answer in the halves and most experts seem to think Galvin is better suited as a five-eighth. The Bulldogs went after Ronald Volkman but failed to land his signature. There are a lot of big names on the market from the end of 2027, including Nathan Cleary and Sam Walker, but that seems unlikely. Zane Harrison is a very interesting option, but the Titans would be foolish not to lock him down on a long-term deal. Otherwise, Sean O’Sullivan — who by all reports the Bulldogs aren’t keeping — and Jock Madden fit the bill as inexpensive, organising halfbacks that could help free Galvin up.

Ciro fuming at disappointing end to year | 02:45

13. EELS

RECORD: 9-15

GRADE: D

WHAT WENT RIGHT: Not a whole lot. At least the Eels found some potential long-term options in the forward pack. They definitely need it, even if Junior Paulo stays. Losing Matt Doorey for the season was a big blow given he was one of their hardest-running forwards, while Luca Moretti looks good in space and had a breakout game against Penrith’s fearsome pack. Then Charlie Guymer is your classic workhorse type middle that every team needs. Add in Ryda Talagi, who debuted late in the season, and there is some young talent there to build around. That obviously extends to Isaiah Iongi too, who continues to look like a genius signing from Penrith if he can stay healthy moving forward.

WHAT WENT WRONG: Injuries certainly haven’t helped, with Mitchell Moses and Isaiah Iongi both spending time on the sidelines while the forward pack took a hit with J’maine Hopgood and Matt Doorey suffering season-ending injuries. But even the club’s injury toll doesn’t excuse for some of the defensive efforts they tossed up, especially playing under a defensive-minded head coach like Jason Ryles. The appeal of Ryles was supposed to be the system and habits he brought over from his time at the Storm and Roosters. Instead, the Eels leaked points at will earlier in the year, with a 52-10 loss to the lowly Titans being the worst of the lot.

Isaiah Iongi battled injuries. (Photo by Jeremy Ng/Getty Images)Source: Getty Images

WHAT THEY NEED: Long-term clarity in the spine. Sure, they definitely need an attitude shift in defence as well and a bit more punch up front, but there are too many question marks over the key positions. Jarome Luai joins Parramatta next season but will only be there for a year. Ronald Volkman was just recently extended and has shown glimpses, but is he definitely the answer or more of a top-shelf back-up? The hope is that Lorenzo Talataina is the long-term answer, but he hasn’t even made his NRL debut and as a result is still an unknown quantity in the top grade. Mitchell Moses is 31 years old and in the prime of his career. Isaiah Iongi is locked in at fullback, but outside of that the rest of the spine around Moses is murky. It’s not just in the halves either. Ryley Smith looked to be the answer at hooker but then was strangely punted to reserve grade. He got a few games here and there, but doesn’t seem to be part of the club’s plans based on his usage and that was despite Smith showing the kind of ticker the Eels need. Sure, he may not have the motor to go the full 80 but there was something there to work with. The same goes for Tallyn Da Silva but consistency has been his biggest issue, especially in defence.

Lorenzo Talataina. Picture Warren Gannon PhotographySource: News Corp Australia

ROSTER STATE OF PLAY

Players off contract end of 2027: Josh Addo-Carr, Matt Doorey, Harrison Edwards, Jezaiah Funa-Iuta, J’maine Hopgood, Kitione Kautoga, Brian Kelly, William Latu, Luca Moretti, Araz Nanva, Joash Papalii, Jordan Samrani, Bailey Simonsson, Ryley Smith, Sam Tuivaiti, Jack Williams

Analysis: Outside of South Sydney, no team in the NRL have as many players set to become free agents on November 1 than the Eels, so the club have a bit of work to do in the coming months. With that said, there are no superstars on this list that are ‘must re-signs’. Ryley Smith is a promising hooker who is highly regarded and is set to be the club’s first priority. He can form a dangerous 1-2 dummy-half combo with Tallyn da Silva over the next few seasons. Josh Addo-Carr still has a bit to give but it’s unlikely he signs anything more than a one or two year deal. Matt Doorey was having a strong season this year until injury strikes. Joash Papalii could benefit from the arrival of Jarome Luai, but his future at the club is uncertain with reports he has been told he is free to leave. Instead, maybe it will be Volkman who could step into the vacant five-eighth role in 2028. Jordan Samrani has shown glimpses he can be a gamebreaking outside back. Workhorse J’maine Hopgood does a lot of clean up work in the middle of the field and the Eels won’t want him leaving the club. Jack Williams has been one of the club’s forwards this season and it’s hard to see the Eels letting him hit the open market.

Key target: The Eels will have Jarome Luai to partner Mitch Moses in 2027 but beyond next season, it’s unclear what their halves will look like. Perhaps the Eels roll with Volkman and Moses, but the club will be looking to see what is out there and aim to target a genuine five-eighth. Matt Burton has been tossed up as a potential option. His game will compliment Moses’ perfectly. Burton comes off contract with the Bulldogs at the end of next season but is long odds to stay there given the abundance of playmaking talent in the ranks.

14. BRONCOS

RECORD: 8-16

GRADE: F

WHAT WENT RIGHT: Not much considering they fell all the way from a premiership to the bottom four. It is genuinely hard to find anything, at least on a broader scale, but individually you could focus on Xavier Willison’s development, especially considering what it means with Payne Haas leaving at the end of the year. Willison put up career-best numbers this year, which isn’t necessarily surprising seeing he had his role scaled up too. The young front rower went from averaging 44 minutes last year to a career-high 58, also increasing his run metres per game to 110 while breaking 54 tackles in total. Willison also shifted to lock forward at times when Pat Carrigan was unavailable, only further showing his ability to play big minutes and get through a high workrate in defence while also leading the way with his carries up front. The next step in Willison’s evolution will be as a leader and communicator without Haas, who went through his own growth journey during his time at Red Hill.

WHAT WENT WRONG: In many ways, Brisbane’s fall from grace this year shouldn’t have come as a major surprise. After all, what the Broncos did in their charge to the premiership last year was simply not sustainable. They relied on individual brilliance far too much and it showed this year, with those same individuals unable to replicate the same form. Gehamat Shibasaki regressed. Reece Walsh was often more rocks than diamonds. Ezra Mam didn’t live up to his hefty pay packet. Meanwhile, both Adam Reynolds and Ben Hunt were nowhere near as effective. The Broncos finally saw the way forward when they got the ball in Walsh’s hands more against the Panthers, with Reynolds otherwise stifling their attack in the red zone. But it was far too late. Even with Walsh running the show, however, Brisbane was far too inconsistent to be a premiership threat. The defensive standards were simply not up to scratch, and the result was a record 16 consecutive gamesconceding at least 10 first half points. Except this time, unlike last year, the Broncos couldn’t catch up.

Ben Hunt will add some experience. (Photo by Cameron Spencer/Getty Images)Source: Getty Images

WHAT THEY NEED: Leaders to set standards. Hunt has taken a step backwards on the field this year, but you can see the value in keeping him around on a low-cost contract for 2027 solely for his locker room presence. That is particularly true given the Broncos have two young halves in Jonah Pezet and Tom Duffy along with the hot-and-cold Ezra Mam, who hasn’t shown much in terms of leadership credentials with his inconsistent performances. Dane Gagai should also be a shrewd signing given he doesn’t looked to have taken a step back based on his form at the Knights, while he obviously has plenty of experience to draw on to help guide this young playing group. It will be another tough pre-season under coach Michael Maguire and unless he gets the players to buy in, there won’t be improvement on the field. No-nonsense veterans like Hunt and Gagai will help in ensuring Maguire’s message gets through.

ROSTER STATE OF PLAY

Players of contract end of 2027: Ben Hunt, Philip Coates, Dane Gagai, Xavier Willison, Josiah Karapani, Deine Mariner, Blake Mozer, Brendan Piakura, Aublix Tawha, Ben Talty.

Analysis: The Broncos have locked up their main stars like Reece Walsh, Pat Carrigan, Ezra Mam and Kotoni Staggs beyond 2027 so they won’t be feeling the pressure to retain their core players. It will surely be Ben Hunt and Dane Gagai’s final seasons in the NRL. Young gun wingers Josiah Karapani and Deine Mariner are strong candidates for extensions to ensure Brisbane has secured depth in the outside backs, although it’s worth noting that the former is currently on thin ice with the club after a couple of off-field indiscretions this season. Xavier Willison though has to be the priority with rival clubs expected to circle him if he hits November 1. Premiership winner and former Australian Schoolboys star Brendan Piakura has a long future ahead of him and the Broncos won’t want him going anywhere given they’ll be without top forward Payne Haas from 2027, but Piakura’s injury and concussion history may give the club pause on tabling a big extension. They’ve signed NSW Origin prop Mitch Barnett to replace Haas – not that he’s really replaceable, however. Jonah Pezet will be trying to nail down the No. 7 jersey in 2027, but there’s still huge question marks over him as their long-term halfback given things haven’t worked out the way he would’ve liked at Parramatta.

Broncos prop Xavier Willison. Pic: NRLSource: Supplied

Key target: While the Broncos have signed Mitch Barnett to replace Payne Haas, they might go for another top prop to bolster their forwards. Four-time premiership winner at Penrith Moses Leota has been linked with a move to several clubs with the Broncos being one. It sounds like Leota is keen to stay at Penrith, even if it means taking less than he may get elsewhere. If that is the case, Brisbane simply needs to throw everything it can at keeping Xavier Willison, who can be the long-term replacement for Haas.

15. TIGERS

RECORD: 8-16

GRADE: D

WHAT WENT RIGHT: The Wests Tigers couldn’t have asked for a better start to the season, sitting in third place with five wins and two losses after the opening two months of football. During that opening period, the Tigers looked capable of making a serious push for the finals with forward pack dominating contests – especially on the edges with Kai Pearce-Paul and Samuela Fainu. Meanwhile, the backs played their role to perfection and the spine were playing at an elite level with Adam Doueihi and Api Koroisau finding themselves in the Origin conversation. The emergence of a young core was also particularly encouraging with the likes of Javon Andrews, Tino Tavana, Ethan Roberts, Solomon Saukuru, Jared Haywood, Josese Lanyon and Vaka Aho all making their NRL debuts. While many other players such as Heamasi Makasini, Jeral Skelton, Fonua Pole and Latu Fainu continued to show glimpses of their enormous potential, further strengthening the long-term roster of the club. The Tigers also did an impressive job of retaining a number of international stars with Taylan May, Terrell May, Sunia Turuva and Jahream Bula deciding to turn down the incoming Perth Bears and PNG Chiefs franchises to remain at the club on long-term deals.

Samuela Fainu of the Tigers.Source: Getty Images

WHAT WENT WRONG: After their strong start, the wheels started to fall off following their Round 7 loss to an under-maned Broncos outfit with the Tigers losing five of their next seven before embarking on an eight-match losing streak. The 21-20 defeat at Campbelltown proved to be a major turning point and their slide was compounded by plenty of off-field instability. This included Jarome Luai’s decision to leave the club and the ugly fallout surrounding Adam Doueihi. Multiple injuries and suspension to star players didn’t help, while the lacked the motivation and confidence on the field. Always priding themselves on their attacking style of footy, it soon became predictable while the defensive standards fell away, ultimately conceding more than 660 points this season. It was a remarkable fall from grace for a side that had looked like a genuine finals contender after Round 8 and killed of their hopes of ending a finals drought that how now been extended to 16 years.

WHAT THEY NEED: Experience. The Wests Tigers have assembled an exciting young core but they need more experienced players around them to help guide the development of the next generation. Benji Marshall highlighted this in his final press conference of the season with the coach stating they will look to the open market to add some more NRL experience to their squad. Jayden Brailey will arrive from the Canberra Raiders, while they have been linked with trio Kurt Mann, Sean O’Sullivan and Tyson Frizell for next season. The club also need to pick and stick with its next halves combination which will provide some sort of stability in the spine. Latu Fainu is the favourite to be the club’s long-term No.6 while Javon Andrews and Jock Madden are other potential options. Another thing they need and is arguably more importance than anything else is no more dramas off the field. This year marked another season they were unable to escape the off-field drama and that can’t continue if they are to get the best out of the squad and return to the finals.

ROSTER STATE OF PLAY

Players off contract end of 2027: Latu Fainu, Samuela Fainu, Patrick Herbert, Royce Hunt, Jock Madden, Fonua Pole, Ethan Roberts, Junior Tupou

November 1 Analysis: The departure of Jarome Luai has allowed the Tigers to offer Latu and Samuela Fainu long-term extensions. According to multiple reports, this is the priority on the club’s to-do list at the moment, having already re-signed Jahream Bula, Taylan May, Sunia Turuva and Terrell May. Retaining the brothers is paramount, with Samuela seen as a future captain of the club, while Latu – or Javon Andrews – has been earmarked to replace Luai in the No. 6 jersey. It is understood their new extensions will also earn them a nice salary upgrade. After that, they will decide on Fonua Pole’s status. One of the club’s best last season, he has struggled to find the same consistency during this year’s campaign. Moved to the interchange bench on multiple occasions, he is set to command interest from other clubs and his price tag may be too much for the Tigers to pay. Royce Hunt has been linked with a move to the Super League and is unlikely to be retained and he could be joined in the overseas competition by Jock Madden, who foxsports.com.au understands will go to November 1. While Madden is the perfect back-up playmaker for the Tigers, he has previously found himself on the radar of multiple Super League teams. The same applies to the remaining off-contract trio. The re-signing of Ethan Roberts isn’t seen as a priority, but he has shown glimpses of his potential. And depending on what they are willing to sign for, Junior Tupou and Patrick Herbert may be moved on.

Fonua Pole of the Tigers.Source: Getty Images

KEY TARGETS: The arrival of Jake Averillo will improve the club’s backline depth, while their long-term spine has already been decided. This means the Tigers will focus on targeting some middles as they shore up their forward stocks. In an ideal world, they would love to land either Thomas Flegler or Spencer Leniu, but it’s hard to see this happening given their limited salary cap funds. Instead, they will need to find some bargain buys and focus on poaching some realistic options. Although they have yet to kick on in the NRL, Caleb Navale (Sea Eagles), Cyrus Stanley-Traill (Dragons), Luron Patea (Panthers) and Salesi Ataata (Rabbitohs) should all find themselves on the side’s radar, and they fit in perfectly with the club’s rebuilding theme.

16. TITANS

RECORD: 6-16

GRADE: D-

WHAT WENT RIGHT: Clarity. One of Josh Hannay’s biggest problems he had to solve in his first season was the make-up of the Titans’ spine. The rookie coach looks to have done that, giving the Gold Coast the building blocks to develop his team moving forward. The emergence of Zane Harrison provided a clear option at halfback after several years of chopping and changing in the halfback position. The rising star showed poise and class beyond his years, with a crowning display against the Panthers proving he could well and truly cut it with the best in the competition. Harrison allowed Jayden Campbell to spend majority of his time at five-eighth, a position that highlights the best aspect of his game – when he runs the ball. Keano Kini was already locked in at fullback, but Oliver Pascoe shaped as the biggest trump card. His emergence came out of the blue but now Hannay looks likely to put his faith in the dynamic hooker, who has a knack of breaking the line from behind the ruck and scoring tries. While the wins were few and far between, Hannay now has a spine he can build around for years to come.

Zane Harrison impressed in his rookie year. (Photo by Jeremy Ng/Getty Images)Source: Getty Images

WHAT WENT WRONG: The Titans can score points, there’s no doubts there. But too often they were staring down the barrel of a big comeback after slow starts that cruelled their season. At halftime of their Round 26 clash against the Rabbitohs, the Gold Coast trailed 28-6. Against the Knights two weeks earlier, they trailed 16-0 after 18 minutes. In Round 22, the Warriors piled on five first half tries – so you get the point. Whether it’s a matter of fitness or motivation, Hannay needs to find a way to get his side firing from the kick-off as opposed to the second half, where the Gold Coast often mounted comebacks and showed they are lethal in attack.

WHAT THEY NEED: With their spine locked in, the Titans likely need reinforcements. However, when speaking after his side’s Round 26 loss to the Rabbitohs, the Gold Coast coach silenced that suggestion. “You don’t go out and buy experience. You’ve actually got to gain it, you’ve got to earn it, you’ve got to play 100 games,” Hannay said. “This idea that we constantly want to go out and buy solutions… it’s just garbage, mate. It’s not the answer.” But with reports emerging the Titans had given AJ Brimson permission to negotiate with rivals, there’s a good chance a significant amount of salary cap space could be freed up. So it would be remiss not to attempt to spend it to strengthen the squad in places they need depth in. Phillip Sami departs, being one of the club’s best outside backs so a play for a winger could be crucial ahead of next season. Mawene Hiroti is already arriving to add depth in the centres, while Siale Faeamani and Allan Fitzgibbon are currently without contracts for the 2027 season. In the forwards, the Gold Coast could attempt to add depth with Jaimin Jolliffe also headed for the Super League. But as it stands, it remains to be seen if they will make any moves.

Gold Coast Titans coach Josh Hannay. Picture Lachie MillardSource: News Corp Australia

ROSTER STATE OF PLAY

Players off contract end of 2027: Cooper Bai, Adam Christensen, Jaylan De Groot, Max Feagai, Jojo Fifita, Moeaki Fotuaika, Tony Francis, Brock Gray, Zane Harrison, Lachlan Ilias, Sunny Kama, Oliver Pascoe, Josh Patston, Chris Randall, Luke Sommerton, Jensen Taumoepeau

Analysis: Josh Hannay is trying to lock down his young halfback Zane Harrison before November 1 which is understandable given his potential. A three-year contract extension has been offered to keep him at the club until the end of 2030. Harrison put his name up in lights after booting a match-winning field goal against Penrith last month and has looked very measured for a young halfback. Young halves like him are like gold, so the Titans need to retain him. Jojo Fifita showed what a player he was during this year’s State of Origin series and reports suggest he and the club want to sort out a new deal. Oliver Pascoe continues to improve after initially coming to the Titans on a 12-week train-and-trial contract in 2025.

Key target: Tino Fa’asuamaleaui needs a bit more support in the middle. They don’t need flashy, wide-running backrowers. They need a few rocks in the middle to tighten up their defence which is pedestrian at times. J’maine Hopgood would be the perfect type of player to stand in the middle of the park and hold them together. Broncos prop Xavier Willison has been improving constantly and he showed against Penrith how important a prop is in a tight, low-scoring game. If the Dolphins can’t resign Selwyn Cobbo, he’d be a great edition to the outside backs as would Raider Xavier Savage.

17. DRAGONS

RECORD: 5-19

GRADE: F

WHAT WENT RIGHT: The Dragons have had a surprisingly positive season for a team fixed to the bottom of the ladder and there’s genuine excitement surrounding this outfit. The reason for that is the emergence of what is shaping to a core of players the club can build around for the future. Toby and Ryan Couchman, Hamish Stewart, Loko Pasifiki Tonga, Jacob Halangahu and Dylan Egan are all set to be regular fixtures and have proven themselves as capable, some of these elite, first graders. Stewart and the Couchman brothers specifically have Origin written all over them and Dean Young has been quietly shaping his young pack. Meanwhile, off the field the Dragons have been undergoing a roster overhaul, signing Keaon Koloamatangi (Rabbitohs), Scott Drinkwater (Cowboys), Phil Sami (Titans), Luke Metcalf (Warriors), Connor Watson (Roosters) and Kodi Nikorima (Dolphins). That is some serious quality to add to any team and now the Red V have something to look forward to in 2027, especially considering they have all but solved their major headache surrounding a spine that has been misfiring in recent seasons.

WHAT WENT WRONG: As aforementioned, it was their spine that sparked the biggest concerns to start the season under Shane Flanagan. Marquee off-season recruit Daniel Atkinson failed to fire in the halves, but he faced a tough task considering the performances of the players around him. After a turbulent period, Shane Flanagan was sacked and Dean Young was appointed interim and then permanent head coach. But the damage was done by then and the Red V’s on-field performances mimicked their off-field farce. A 62-16 defeat at the hands of the Roosters marked a sad day for the rugby league powerhouse, and their forward pack was consistently being beaten through the middle while their outside backs struggled to stock consistent attacking barrages. While a host of players stood tall to close out the year, the Dragons had to wait until Round 13 to secure their first win and prior to that, almost everything that could go wrong did.

Daniel Atkinson and Clint Gutherson.Source: Supplied

WHAT THEY NEED: Often for teams who have had a turbulent season, signings are what they need to kickstart a resurgence. Well, the Dragons have already hit the market hard to reshape what has been a lacklustre squad in recent years. So what Dean Young desperately needs is for his big-name signings to hit the ground running, especially in the spine. Luke Metcalf and Kodi Nikorima are set to wear the No.7 and No.6 next season and their partnership will be crucial to the club’s success, while Scott Drinkwater will shift Clint Gutherson out of the fullback role. Throw in the mix Phil Sami on the wing and Young will have a tough decision as to who makes up the remaining three spots in the backline, with veteran Gutherson and Atkinson both desperate to feature in this side next season. Both have the ability to play in the centres or on the wing, but regardless, Young has some huge decisions to make to ensure his side gels with a host of new faces.

ROSTER STATE OF PLAY

Players off contract end of 2027: Hayden Buchanan, David Fale, Kyle Flanagan, Clinton Gutherson, Jacob Halangahu, Valentine Holmes, Josh Kerr, Lyhkan King-Togia, Loko Pasifiki Tonga, Cyrus Stanley-Traill, Moses Suli, Nick Tsougranis

Analysis: The emergence of the Couchman twins has been a rare highlight in what has been a dark year for the club, with the Dragons retaining the duo on long-term deals after they initially entered this season only contracted until the end of 2027. Clint Gutherson and Val Holmes are a pair of veteran backs who have had mixed seasons this year. Both are all but certain to hit November 1 without a new deal with the club set to see what the pair will offer next year before making a call. Loko Pasifiki Tonga looks to have a bright NRL future. Under new coach Dean Young, he has really come on and is keen to remain at the club although there will be other clubs who have a crack if he hits the open market. Moses Suli has reportedly been told he’s free to explore his options. Lykhan King-Togia has a stack of ability but he hasn’t been able to deliver thus far in first grade. He’s only 21 and should be given time, but it’s likely he gets to November 1 without an extension so could be susceptible to a contract offer from another team.

Valentine Holmes. (Photo by Brett Hemmings/Getty Images)Source: Getty Images

Key target: A high quality dummy-half is what the club needs. Jacob Liddle will be called upon to start next season with Damien Cook heading to the Super League. Liddle has x-factor, but the jury’s out whether he can do the job consistently as a starting hooker. Wayde Egan would be the dream addition. The Warriors won’t let Egan go without a fight, but the 29-year-old could be interested in a return to Sydney. If they can’t land him, Blake Mozer is highly regarded at the Broncos but he hasn’t been given much of an opportunity in the top grade, although injuries have played their part. Mozer wouldn’t be a major upgrade on Liddle though. But either way, if the Dragons can add another hooker it would complete a strong spine that will consist of Luke Metcalf, Kodi Nikorima and Scott Drinkwater from next season.