{"id":198501,"date":"2025-10-08T19:25:07","date_gmt":"2025-10-08T19:25:07","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/198501\/"},"modified":"2025-10-08T19:25:07","modified_gmt":"2025-10-08T19:25:07","slug":"predicted-round-1-teams-2026-latrell-mitchell-rabbitohs-daly-cherry-evans-roosters-ben-hunt-broncos","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/198501\/","title":{"rendered":"Predicted Round 1 teams, 2026, Latrell Mitchell, Rabbitohs, Daly Cherry-Evans, Roosters, Ben Hunt, Broncos"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>Latrell Mitchell looks set for a permanent switch in a reshuffled South Sydney side, while the Sydney Roosters will field a new-look spine with Daly Cherry-Evans in our 2026 predicted Round 1 teams. <\/p>\n<p>Meanwhile, Dylan Brown has a new club, and a new position, after joining the Knights on his record $13 million deal. <\/p>\n<p>And Ben Hunt could be set for a permanent switch to hooker, as the Broncos look to go back-to-back. <\/p>\n<p>Watch Every game LIVE on FOX LEAGUE, available on Kayo| New to Kayo? <a href=\"https:\/\/kayosports.com.au?pg=default&amp;extcamp=fsaeditoriallinkleague-edt-fsp-lnk-awr-grc-nrl-kyo&amp;channel=fsa&amp;campaign=fsacontra&amp;voucher=\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer nofollow\" target=\"_blank\">Join now and get your first month for just $1<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>WHAT&#8217;S GAMBLING REALLY COSTING YOU? Set a deposit limit. For Free and confidential support call 1800 858 858 or visit gamblinghelponline.org.au.<\/p>\n<p>Read below for foxsports.com.au\u2019s way-too-early predicted Round 1 teams for 2026!<\/p>\n<p>BRONCOS<\/p>\n<p>1. Reece Walsh<\/p>\n<p>2. Deine Mariner<\/p>\n<p>3. Kotoni Staggs<\/p>\n<p>4. Gehamat Shibasaki<\/p>\n<p>5. Josiah Karapani<\/p>\n<p>6. Ezra Mam<\/p>\n<p>7. Adam Reynolds<\/p>\n<p>8. Corey Jensen<\/p>\n<p>9. Ben Hunt<\/p>\n<p>10. Payne Haas<\/p>\n<p>11. Brendan Piakura<\/p>\n<p>12. Jordan Riki<\/p>\n<p>13. Patrick Carrigan<\/p>\n<p>14. Billy Walters<\/p>\n<p>15. Ben Talty<\/p>\n<p>16. Xavier Willison <\/p>\n<p>17. Ben Te Kura <\/p>\n<p>Analysis: Why change a winning formula? Well Michael Maguire might do just that in Round 1 of the 2026 season, with Ezra Mam likely to return to the starting side and Ben Hunt shifting to hooker. Billy Walters might be touch and go to take the field after going under the knife on a knee injury and if he\u2019s not fit, Blake Mozer could be named as the bench utility. Tyson Smoothy, who slotted into lock in Brisbane\u2019s preliminary finals triumph over the Panthers, will depart for the Super League, signing a three-year deal with Wakefield Trinity. His omission from the top 17 will likely see Ben Talty reclaim his bench spot after he was left out for the grand final. Ben Te Kura is set to join the bench rotation, with Kobe Hetherington moving to Manly on a four-year deal. <\/p>\n<p>MORE GRAND FINAL NEWS<\/p>\n<p>FREE AGENCY STATE OF PLAY: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.foxsports.com.au\/nrl\/nrl-premiership\/nrl-2025-november-1-state-of-play-160-players-wholl-hit-open-market-at-deadline-analysis-contract-latest-news-payne-haas-ryan-papenhuyzen-tom-trbojevic\/news-story\/3212b916e7b7241a553016e070f76a97\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer nofollow\" target=\"_blank\">Every NRL\u2019s team\u2019s Nov 1 stars, potential targets<\/a><\/p>\n<p>KANGAROOS: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.foxsports.com.au\/nrl\/nrl-2025-ashes-tour-kangaroos-squad-announced-by-coach-kevin-walters-reece-walsh-nathan-cleary-jillaroos-squad\/news-story\/e46afbab17aca0667bfaa819d23f479f\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer nofollow\" target=\"_blank\">Kevvie\u2019s big blow as two big names OUT, replacements revealed<\/a><\/p>\n<p>WHISPERS: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.foxsports.com.au\/nrl\/nrl-premiership\/nrl-2025-transfer-whispers-melbourne-storm-tui-kamikamica-contracts-signings-storm-salary-cap-headache-news-videos-highlights\/news-story\/760ed9a512bf6625fd17bbd67f6f627c\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer nofollow\" target=\"_blank\">Haas puts R360 talks on hold for NRL clarification amid $10m mega deal<\/a><\/p>\n<p>Haas&#8217; management puts R360 talks on hold | 00:57<\/p>\n<p>BULLDOGS<\/p>\n<p>1. Connor Tracey<\/p>\n<p>2. Marcelo Montoya<\/p>\n<p>3. Bronson Xerri<\/p>\n<p>4. Stephen Crichton<\/p>\n<p>5. Jacob Kiraz<\/p>\n<p>6. Matt Burton<\/p>\n<p>7. Lachlan Galvin<\/p>\n<p>8. Max King<\/p>\n<p>9. Bailey Hayward<\/p>\n<p>10. Leo Thompson<\/p>\n<p>11. Viliame Kikau<\/p>\n<p>12. Jacob Preston<\/p>\n<p>13. Jaeman Salmon<\/p>\n<p>14. Mitchell Woods<\/p>\n<p>15. Kurt Mann<\/p>\n<p>16. Josh Curran<\/p>\n<p>17. Sitili Tupouniua<\/p>\n<p>Analysis: The Bulldogs have a halves headache on their hands, and the emergence of young gun Mitchell Woods throws a spanner in the works. To start the season, Matt Burton and Lachlan Galvin will likely begin in the halves. However, Cameron Ciraldo could give Woods a chance to showcase his skills off the bench and find his feet in first grade, before a decision is made regarding the rising star\u2019s long-term position in this side. That decision could spark a backline reshuffle, but for now the Bulldogs\u2019 best back five includes Marcelo Montoya and Connor Tracey. Joining this side is also Leo Thompson, who will start in the front row as the club\u2019s marquee recruit, which could put Harry Hayes\u2019 spot in the 17 under pressure despite delivering a host of strong performances to close out the year.<\/p>\n<p>Every game LIVE with no ad-breaks in play on FOX LEAGUE, available on Kayo | New to Kayo? <a href=\"https:\/\/kayosports.com.au?pg=default&amp;extcamp=fsaeditoriallinkleague-edt-fsp-lnk-awr-grc-nrl-kyo&amp;channel=fsa&amp;campaign=fsacontra&amp;voucher=\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer nofollow\" target=\"_blank\">Join now and get your first month for just $1.<\/a><\/p>\n<p>Samoa stars commit for 2026 World Cup | 02:29<\/p>\n<p>COWBOYS<\/p>\n<p>1. Scott Drinkwater<\/p>\n<p>2. Murray Taulagi<\/p>\n<p>3. Zac Laybutt<\/p>\n<p>4. Viliami Vailea<\/p>\n<p>5. Braidon Burns<\/p>\n<p>6. Jaxon Purdue<\/p>\n<p>7. Tom Dearden<\/p>\n<p>8. Jason Taumalolo<\/p>\n<p>9. Reed Mahoney<\/p>\n<p>10. Coen Hess<\/p>\n<p>11. Heilum Luki<\/p>\n<p>12. Jeremiah Nanai<\/p>\n<p>13. Reuben Cotter<\/p>\n<p>14. John Bateman<\/p>\n<p>15. Harrison Edwards<\/p>\n<p>16. Sam McIntyre<\/p>\n<p>17. Kai O\u2019Donnell<\/p>\n<p>Analysis: With Reece Robson departing, Reed Mahoney slots into the No.9 jersey after joining the club as a marquee recruit. Scott Drinkwater will be the fullback, with Murray Taulagi and Braidon Burns on the wings and Zac Laybutt and Viliami Vailea in the centres should Todd Payten opt to shuffle a rising star into the halves. Jaxon Purdue is expected to get first crack at five-eighth and partner Tom Dearden in the halves, despite a failed experiment during the 2025 season. It\u2019s a big call to shift Purdue out of the centres, but long-term he is considered a playmaker and as such could make that switch permanently. Jason Taumalolo will hopefully put his injuries behind him to start up front with Coen Hess, after the retirement of Jordan McLean. A fit-again Heilum Luki and Jeremiah Nanai will be the second-rowers, with Reuben Cotter at lock. John Bateman, Harrison Edwards, Sam McIntyre and Kai O\u2019Donnell round out the likely bench with Thomas Mikaele also in the equation depending on pre-season performances.<\/p>\n<p>DOLPHINS<\/p>\n<p>1. Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow<\/p>\n<p>2. Jamayne Isaako<\/p>\n<p>3. Jake Averillo<\/p>\n<p>4. Herbie Farnworth<\/p>\n<p>5. Selwyn Cobbo<\/p>\n<p>6. Kodi Nikorima<\/p>\n<p>7. Isaiya Katoa<\/p>\n<p>8. Daniel Saifiti<\/p>\n<p>9. Jeremy Marshall-King<\/p>\n<p>10. Tom Flegler<\/p>\n<p>11. Max Plath<\/p>\n<p>12. Connelly Lemeulu<\/p>\n<p>13. Tom Gilbert<\/p>\n<p>14. Kurt Donoghoe<\/p>\n<p>15. Kulikefu Finefeuiaki<\/p>\n<p>16. Francis Molo<\/p>\n<p>17. Morgan Knowles<\/p>\n<p>Analysis: This line-up is absolutely stacked. Kristian Woolf has a mountain of players returning from injury ahead of the 2026 season, and has some mammoth selection decisions on his hands. Recruit Selwyn Cobbo and flyer Jack Bostock are set to battle it out for a spot on the wings in the first of many big calls, with the former Dally M Rookie of the Year returning from an ACL injury suffered in Round 16, so he could be touch and go to take the field. Elsewhere in the forwards, Daniel Saifiti, Tom Gilbert, Max Plath and most notably, Tom Flegler are all set to return into this starting side. Flegler has not taken the field since Round 5 of the 2024 season due to a nerve issue stemming from a shoulder injury. He revealed to News Corp he is eyeing a return in 2026 and that he is aiming to take the field in Round 1. \u201cIf you want to say (I\u2019ve avoided retirement), you could. I\u2019m going to go back and play, and you know what it\u2019s like, anything can happen when we play,\u201d he said. The raft of returning stars unseats the likes of Felise Kaufusi, Oryn Keeley and Ray Stone, while Josh Kerr, Aublix Tawha and Mark Nicholls (retirement) won\u2019t be at the club. Morgan Knowles is also somewhat of an unknown, but Woolf clearly rates his English recruit and he could force his way onto the pine.<\/p>\n<p>Pacific Champs teams unveiled | 02:30<\/p>\n<p>DRAGONS<\/p>\n<p>1. Clint Gutherson<\/p>\n<p>2. Tyrell Sloan<\/p>\n<p>3. Moses Suli<\/p>\n<p>4. Valentine Holmes<\/p>\n<p>5. Christian Tuipulotu<\/p>\n<p>6. Daniel Atkinson<\/p>\n<p>7. Kyle Flanagan<\/p>\n<p>8. Toby Couchman<\/p>\n<p>9. Damien Cook<\/p>\n<p>10. David Klemmer<\/p>\n<p>11. Jayd\u2019n Su\u2019A<\/p>\n<p>12. Dylan Egan<\/p>\n<p>13. Hamish Stewart<\/p>\n<p>14. Jacob Liddle<\/p>\n<p>15. Ryan Couchman<\/p>\n<p>16. Emre Guler<\/p>\n<p>17. Joseph Leilua<\/p>\n<p>Analysis: Shane Flanagan has some big decisions to make, with one of Kyle Flanagan or Lykhan King-Togia on the chopping block. Daniel Atkinson is set to arrive at the Dragons and may slot straight into the halves, with Flanagan likely to remain alongside him in 2026. In the forwards, a wave of injured stars return, including young gun quartet Toby and Ryan Couchman, Hamish Stewart and Dylan Egan. Their emergence, and potential to fill what is a promising forward pack built for the future, could squeeze out a handful of veterans including new recruit Josh Kerr. He could find a spot on the bench, but it remains to be seen if he will be given a role in the starting 17, or if Flanagan will invest in his band of young guns. Joey Leilua also could be on the chopping block, with Emre Guler also set to join the bench and play a role in the middle rotation after David Klemmer had a strong back-end to the 2025 season, although he is unsigned for 2026 at this stage so he could be an omission. Loko Pasifika Tonga and Jacob Halangahu are the remaining contenders, and were solid to close out the year and will be very much in contention. <\/p>\n<p>EELS<\/p>\n<p>1. Isaiah Iongi<\/p>\n<p>2. Zac Lomax<\/p>\n<p>3. Will Penisini<\/p>\n<p>4. Sean Russell<\/p>\n<p>5. Josh Addo-Carr<\/p>\n<p>6. Joash Papalii<\/p>\n<p>7. Mitchell Moses<\/p>\n<p>8. Junior Paulo<\/p>\n<p>9. Ryley Smith<\/p>\n<p>10. J\u2019maine Hopgood<\/p>\n<p>11. Jack Williams<\/p>\n<p>12. Kelma Tuilagi<\/p>\n<p>13. Jack de Belin<\/p>\n<p>14. Tallyn Da Silva<\/p>\n<p>15. Dylan Walker<\/p>\n<p>16. Sam Tuivaiti<\/p>\n<p>17. Charlie Guymer<\/p>\n<p>Analysis: It remains to be seen if Zac Lomax will be an Eels player in 2026, but if he remains at the club he will start on the wing as usual. No major changes are expected in Jason Ryles\u2019 side, who were very strong to close out the season. Marquee recruit Jack de Belin could start at lock, meaning Dylan Walker comes on in the middle against tired defenders to wreak havoc, being one of Parramatta\u2019s best players last season. Sam Tuivaiti is also due back from a knee injury, having stamped his mark as an up-and-coming star during his debut campaign. Joash Papalii is the likely man to win the No.6 jersey, with Dylan Brown departing for the Knights. A promising side that will be hopeful of building on a strong end of their 2025 campaign. Kitione Kautoga, Luca Moertti, Matt Doorey and Jordan Samrani will undoubtedly also be in contention and find spots in the forward pack throughout the year.<\/p>\n<p>Loiero facing two-match suspension | 00:44<\/p>\n<p>KNIGHTS<\/p>\n<p>1. Kalyn Ponga<\/p>\n<p>2. Greg Marzhew <\/p>\n<p>3. Bradman Best<\/p>\n<p>4. Dane Gagai<\/p>\n<p>5. Dom Young<\/p>\n<p>6. Fletcher Sharpe<\/p>\n<p>7. Dylan Brown<\/p>\n<p>8. Jacob Saifiti<\/p>\n<p>9. Phoenix Crossland<\/p>\n<p>10. Trey Mooney <\/p>\n<p>11. Jermaine McEwen<\/p>\n<p>12. Dylan Lucas <\/p>\n<p>13. Tyson Frizell <\/p>\n<p>14. Tyson Gamvble<\/p>\n<p>15. Pasami Saulo <\/p>\n<p>16. Matthew Croker <\/p>\n<p>17. Elijah Salesa-Leaumoana<\/p>\n<p>Analysis: New coach Justin Holbrook has a big job to rebuild the Knights and will no doubt have his own ideas after his first pre-season with the team. Kalyn Ponga will be the fullback but there is plenty of competition for outside back spots with with Greg Marzhew, Dom Young and Fletcher Hunt all fighting for wing spots. Bradman Best and Dane Gagai should again be the centres, with Fletcher Sharpe returning from injury at five-eighth and $13 million man Dylan Brown starting the season at halfback ahead of Jack Cogger, who could also reportedly be on the move to the Panthers or find a spot on the bench as a utility. Jacob Saifiti and new recruit Trey Mooney may start in the front row after Leo Thompson\u2019s move to the Bulldogs, which has put a big dent into Newcastle\u2019s middle forwards depth. Phoenix Crossland starts at hooker after Jayden Brailey\u2019s switch to the Raiders. Jermaine McEwen and Dylan Lucas will likely start in the second row and forge a strong pairing, with Kai Pearce-Paul moving to the Tigers, with veteran Tyson Frizell at lock. On the bench, Pasami Saulo will likely get a run, alongside Matt Croker and rising star Elijah Salesa-Leaumoana who the club have big wraps on, having played seven games, with four off the bench to close out the year.<\/p>\n<p>Dylan Brown is tipped to play halfback for the Knights.Source: News Corp Australia<\/p>\n<p>PANTHERS<\/p>\n<p>1. Dylan Edwards<\/p>\n<p>2. Paul Alamoti<\/p>\n<p>3. Izack Tago<\/p>\n<p>4. Casey McLean <\/p>\n<p>5. Brian To\u2019o <\/p>\n<p>6. Blaize Talagi <\/p>\n<p>7. Nathan Cleary <\/p>\n<p>8. Moses Leota <\/p>\n<p>9. Mitch Kenny <\/p>\n<p>10. Lindsay Smith <\/p>\n<p>11. Isaiah Papali\u2019i <\/p>\n<p>12. Liam Martin <\/p>\n<p>13. Isaah Yeo <\/p>\n<p>14. Jack Cole <\/p>\n<p>15. Liam Henry <\/p>\n<p>16. Scott Sorensen <\/p>\n<p>17. Luke Garner <\/p>\n<p>Analysis: The Panthers are one of the most settled teams in the NRL, with no recruits for next season as of yet. Dylan Edwards will be the fullback, with Paul Alamoti and Brian To\u2019o on the wings ahead of Thomas Jenkins. Izack Tago and Casey McLean will be the centres, with Blaize Talagi and Nathan Cleary in the halves. Moses Leota and Lindsay Smith start up front, with Mitch Kenny at hooker as per usual. Isaiah Papali\u2019i might get a start next year with Scott Sorensen shifting to the bench due to his consistent injury concerns, while Isaah Yeo is of course at lock. Jack Cole is in line to be the new utility, with Brad Schneider moving to the Dolphins but Billy Scott will be hot on his tail, being the next cab off the rank in the hooker rankings after the departures of Luke Sommerton and Soni Luke. Liam Henry, Luke Garner and Sorensen round out the predicted bench. <\/p>\n<p>RABBITOHS<\/p>\n<p>1. Jye Gray<\/p>\n<p>2. Alex Johnston <\/p>\n<p>3. Jack Wighton <\/p>\n<p>4. Latrell Mitchell <\/p>\n<p>5. Campbell Graham <\/p>\n<p>6. Cody Walker <\/p>\n<p>7. Jamie Humphreys <\/p>\n<p>8. Tevita Tatola <\/p>\n<p>9. Bronson Garlick <\/p>\n<p>10. Keaon Koloamatangi <\/p>\n<p>11. Tallis Duncan <\/p>\n<p>12. Jai Arrow <\/p>\n<p>13. Cameron Murray <\/p>\n<p>14. Brandon Smith <\/p>\n<p>15. Lachlan Hubner<\/p>\n<p>16. Euan Aitken <\/p>\n<p>17. Sean Keppie <\/p>\n<p>Analysis: Wayne Bennett has some big decisions to make next season after the Rabbitohs\u2019 disappointing campaign in 2025, albeit with a horror casualty ward. Jye Gray should be the fullback with Alex Johnston and Campbell Graham returning from a back injury on the wings. Graham\u2019s positional switch is to get Latrell Mitchell and Jack Wighton in the centres, and that duo could be a scary proposition in 2026. Cody Walker and Jamie Humprheys will start in the halves, but Humphreys could also be used at hooker with new recruit Jonah Glover a chance to play halfback, while Ashton Ward will put pressure on the ageing Walker for a starting berth. Tevita Tatola and Keaon Koloamatangi start in the front row, with new recruit Bronson Garlick at hooker. Tallis Duncan and Jai Arrow will be the second row, with skipper Cameon Murray back at lock, pushing Lachlan Hubner to the bench. Brandon Smith will be the bench utility, unless he is suspended over his drug and betting scandal, which is still to play out in the courts. Euan Aitken and Sean Keppie round out the bench. Souths have brought wingers Edward Kosi and Moala Graham-Taufa from the Warriors and Latrell Siegwalt from the Broncos, but they will have to bide their time to force their way into the 17. David Fifita could make their pack even more formidible, but he is yet to be given a release form the Titans to join Souths in 2026. <\/p>\n<p>Latrell Mitchell could be set for a permanent move to centre.Source: Supplied<\/p>\n<p>RAIDERS<\/p>\n<p>1. Kaeo Weekes<\/p>\n<p>2. Savielo Tamale<\/p>\n<p>3. Matt Timoko<\/p>\n<p>4. Seb Kris<\/p>\n<p>5. Xavier Savage<\/p>\n<p>6. Ethan Strange<\/p>\n<p>7. Ethan Sanders<\/p>\n<p>8. Josh Papalii<\/p>\n<p>9. Tom Starling<\/p>\n<p>10. Joe Tapine<\/p>\n<p>11. Hudson Young<\/p>\n<p>12. Zac Hosking<\/p>\n<p>13. Corey Horsburgh<\/p>\n<p>14. Owen Pattie<\/p>\n<p>15. Simi Sasagi<\/p>\n<p>16. Matty Nicholson<\/p>\n<p>17. Ata Mariota<\/p>\n<p>Analysis: The only change for the Raiders in the off-season will be the loss of halfback Jamal Fogarty, who will now call Manly home. Perhaps envisioning Fogarty\u2019s potential departure, 18 months ago, the Raiders signed exciting Eels playmaker Ethan Sanders. Sanders was barely tested in first grade this year, but when he did hit the field, he didn\u2019t let the team down. He\u2019ll be given first crack in the Green Machine\u2019s No.7 jersey to form an exciting playmaker partnership with Ethan Strange. In the forwards, Zac Hosking did enough this past season to earn the right to start at second row to kick off next season with Matty Nicholson and the versatile Simi Sasagi to come off the bench. In the hooker ranks, Jayden Brailey joins the club and could put pressure on Owen Pattie, however he likely did enough this season to retain his spot for the time being. All the other positions are pretty straight forward for Ricky Stuart with very little change required. After all, they were the best team all season in 2025. <\/p>\n<p>ROOSTERS<\/p>\n<p>1. James Tedesco <\/p>\n<p>2. Daniel Tupou<\/p>\n<p>3. Billy Smith <\/p>\n<p>4. Robert Toia<\/p>\n<p>5. Mark Nawaqanitawase <\/p>\n<p>6. Daly Cherry-Evans<\/p>\n<p>7. Sam Walker <\/p>\n<p>8. Spencer Leniu<\/p>\n<p>9. Reece Robson <\/p>\n<p>10. Lindsay Collins<\/p>\n<p>11. Angus Crichton <\/p>\n<p>12. Siua Wong<\/p>\n<p>13. Naufahu Whyte <\/p>\n<p>14. Connor Watson<\/p>\n<p>15. Nat Butcher <\/p>\n<p>16. Egan Butcher<\/p>\n<p>17. Blake Steep<\/p>\n<p>Analysis: The Roosters have a few unknowns heading into 2025, but let\u2019s assume Daly Cherry-Evans is joining the club and will partner Sam Walker in the halves, with Hugo Savala waiting in the wings to take over when he retires. There\u2019s a world where Cherry-Evans plays utility, but it\u2019s not this one and Savala might be forced out of this 17 for the time being. James Tedesco will be the fullback, with Daniel Tupou and Mark Nawaqanitawase on the wings, while Billy Smith and Robert Toia will be the centres. Spencer Leniu and Lindsay Collins are the props, with new recruit Reece Robson at hooker. Siua Wong will partner Angus Crichton in the back row, with Naufahu Whyte at lock, while Victor Radley is suspended. Connor Watson shifts to the bench, but he could also feature at lock, with Benaiah Ioelu also a bench option after a breakout year at hooker. The returning Nat Butcher, Egan Butcher and Blake Steep will get first crack at the final bench spots, but there is plenty of competition in this Roosters pack, with Taylor Losalu and Salesi Foketi pushing hard for inclusion. <\/p>\n<p>Daly Cherry-Evans is widely tipped to play five-eighth for the Roosters in 2026.Source: Getty Images<\/p>\n<p>SEA EAGLES<\/p>\n<p>1. Tom Trbojevic<\/p>\n<p>2. Jason Saab<\/p>\n<p>3. Tolu Koula<\/p>\n<p>4. Reuben Garrick<\/p>\n<p>5. Lehi Hopoate<\/p>\n<p>6. Luke Brooks<\/p>\n<p>7. Jamal Fogarty<\/p>\n<p>8. Taniela Paseka<\/p>\n<p>9. Lachlan Croker<\/p>\n<p>10. Jake Trbojevic<\/p>\n<p>11. Haumole Olakau\u2019atu<\/p>\n<p>12. Ben Trbojevic<\/p>\n<p>13. Kobe Hetherington<\/p>\n<p>14. Jake Simpkin<\/p>\n<p>15. Ethan Bullemor<\/p>\n<p>16. Nathan Brown<\/p>\n<p>17. Caleb Navale<\/p>\n<p>Analysis: For the first time in 16 years, the Sea Eagles will enter a new season without Daly Cherry-Evans. While it hasn\u2019t been made official, DCE is set to join the Roosters from next season. He will be replaced in the starting side by former Raiders half Jamal Fogarty, who joins Manly on a three-year deal. Several players ended the year on the injury list, including a couple of star forwards in Taniela Paseka (Achilles) and Haumole Olakau\u2019atu (shoulder). The club released a statement when Manly\u2019s season ended that both will be right for Round 1 with Olakau\u2019atu to return to full contact in January. One forward who could be missing is Josh Aloiai, who is awaiting final confirmation from the NRL about potentially being medically retired. Reuben Garrick hurt his shoulder late in the year but will be fit for the pre-season. The Sea Eagles signed Kobe Hetherigton on a four-year deal. He\u2019ll be pushing hard for a starting spot which could see Jake Trbojevic start in the front row. While there are plenty of raps on emerging prop Simione Laiafi, Fijian middle forward Caleb Navale had an excellent start to the season and will remain on the bench alongside Nathan Brown and Ethan Bullemor.<\/p>\n<p>SHARKS<\/p>\n<p>1. William Kennedy <\/p>\n<p>2. Sione Katoa <\/p>\n<p>3. Jesse Ramien <\/p>\n<p>4. KL Iro<\/p>\n<p>5. Ronaldo Mulitalo<\/p>\n<p>6. Braydon Trindall <\/p>\n<p>7. Nicho Hynes<\/p>\n<p>8. Addin Fonua-Blake<\/p>\n<p>9. Blayke Brailey<\/p>\n<p>10. Toby Rudolf<\/p>\n<p>11. Briton Nikora<\/p>\n<p>12. Teig Wilton <\/p>\n<p>13. Jesse Colquhoun<\/p>\n<p>14. Siosifa Talakai<\/p>\n<p>15. Billy Burns <\/p>\n<p>16. Braden Hamlin-Uele<\/p>\n<p>17. Tom Hazelton<\/p>\n<p>Analysis: The Sharks are another of the most settled teams in the NRL with William Kennedy at fullback and Sione Katoa and Ronaldo Mulitalo on the wings, while Liam Ison will push for inclusion when he return from an ACL injury. Jesse Ramien and KL Iro will be the centres, while Braydon Trindall and Nicho Hynes will again be the halves. Addin Fonua-Blake and Toby Rudolf will start up front after the latter\u2019s impressive end to their 2025 season, with skipper Blayke Brailey at hooker. Briton Nikora should reclaim a starting spot with Teig Wilton in the back row, although Billy Burns\u2019 outstanding finish to the year will have given Craig Fitzgibbon food for thought. Regardless, it\u2019s a clean slate next year and as such, Nikora\u2019s quality could earn him selection. Tom Hazelton will also be pushing for a bench spot, having returned to close out the year. Oregon Kaufusi and Tuku Hau Tapuha are the odd men out in the forward pack, while Cameron McInnes will also be sidelined to start the season after an ACL blow.<\/p>\n<p>Walsh among seven debutants for Ashes | 02:45<\/p>\n<p>STORM<\/p>\n<p>1. Ryan Papenhuyzen<\/p>\n<p>2. Will Warbrick<\/p>\n<p>3. Jack Howarth<\/p>\n<p>4. Nick Meaney<\/p>\n<p>5. Xavier Coates<\/p>\n<p>6. Cam Munster<\/p>\n<p>7. Jahrome Hughes<\/p>\n<p>8. Stefano Utoikamanu<\/p>\n<p>9. Harry Grant<\/p>\n<p>10. Josh King<\/p>\n<p>11. Shawn Blore<\/p>\n<p>12. Eli Katoa<\/p>\n<p>13. Ativalu Lisati<\/p>\n<p>14. Tyran Wishart<\/p>\n<p>15. Nelson Asofa-Solomona<\/p>\n<p>16. Alec MacDonald<\/p>\n<p>17. Josiah Pahulu<\/p>\n<p>Analysis: Barring any pre-season injuries, there aren\u2019t expected to many changes from the side that lost to Brisbane in last Sunday\u2019s decider. Lock forward Trent Loiero copped a two-match fine for a high tackle on Pat Carrigan and will miss Round 1. Melbourne have a couple of exciting middle forwards waiting in the wings though, including former Titan Josiah Pahulu. He\u2019s a chance of making his Storm debut in next year\u2019s opening round. Only one player, Tui Kamikamica, ran onto Accor Stadium without a deal for next year. It\u2019s likely he has played his last game for the Storm due to the club\u2019s salary cap pressures, unless he is happy to accept a minimum-wage deal. Ativalu Lisati is a player on the rise and got one start at lock in 2025, and he could start in the No.13 jersey next year after also filling into the edge forwards and on the pine. Nelson Asofa-Solomona will be back on deck for Round 1 after serving a three-game suspension. However, he has been linked with an exit from the club, even with a couple of years left on his deal. Given his lack of discipline has seen him miss the last two grand finals, perhaps the Storm\u2019s patience is wearing thin and he could depart the club this off-season. But for now, he remains in their best forward pack.<\/p>\n<p>TITANS<\/p>\n<p>1. Keano Kini<\/p>\n<p>2. Jaylan De Groot<\/p>\n<p>3. Brian Kelly<\/p>\n<p>4. Phil Sami<\/p>\n<p>5. Jojo Fifita<\/p>\n<p>6. AJ Brimson<\/p>\n<p>7. Jayden Campbell<\/p>\n<p>8. Moe Fotuaika<\/p>\n<p>9. Sam Verrills<\/p>\n<p>10. Tino Fa\u2019asuamaleaui<\/p>\n<p>11. David Fifita<\/p>\n<p>12. Beau Fermor<\/p>\n<p>13. Chris Randall<\/p>\n<p>14. Klese Haas<\/p>\n<p>15. Jaimin Joliffe<\/p>\n<p>16. Cooper Bai<\/p>\n<p>17. Josh Patston<\/p>\n<p>Analysis: A bit of player movement is likely given new coach Josh Hannay hasn\u2019t been scared to make some big personnel calls. Veteran prop Reagan Campbell-Gillard is out the door (Super League), while winger Alofiana Khan-Pereira has been given permission to depart as well, with the Warriors the favourites at this stage to land the flyer. Kieran Foran has retired, opening up the No.6 jersey. AJ Brimson reportedly isn\u2019t open to the idea of playing in the centres, only five-eighth or fullback. Keano Kini will wear the No.1 with the club putting faith in him with a long-term deal, so Brimson likely pairs up with Jayden Campbell in the halves. There\u2019s uncertainty over David Fifita. The Rabbitohs are interested and the star forward is keen to leave, but he\u2019s under contract for next year and if a deal doesn\u2019t get done with another club, the Titans will obviously want him in the line up. Young gun Cooper Bai was super impressive in his NRL debut in Round 27. He should be in the best 17 to start the season, while Josh Patston also had a solid end of his campaign, likely winning a spot on the bench. <\/p>\n<p>Broncos call for stadium upgrades | 02:04<\/p>\n<p>WARRIORS<\/p>\n<p>1. Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad<\/p>\n<p>2. Dallin Watene-Zelezniak<\/p>\n<p>3. Adam Pompey<\/p>\n<p>4. Rocco Berry<\/p>\n<p>5. Roger Tuivasa-Sheck<\/p>\n<p>6. Chanel Harris-Tavita <\/p>\n<p>7. Luke Metcalf<\/p>\n<p>8. James Fisher-Harris<\/p>\n<p>9. Wayde Egan <\/p>\n<p>10. Mitch Barnett<\/p>\n<p>11. Kurt Capewell <\/p>\n<p>12. Leka Halasima<\/p>\n<p>13. Erin Clark<\/p>\n<p>14. Te Maire Martin <\/p>\n<p>15. Demitric Vaimauga<\/p>\n<p>16. Morgan Gannon<\/p>\n<p>17. Marata Niukore <\/p>\n<p>Analysis: Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad will be the fullback, with Dallin Watene-Zelezniak and Roger Tuivasa-Sheck on the wings, unless he is released to join R360 early, in which case Taine Tuaupiki could find himself on the flank. Adam Pompey and Rocco Berry will be the centres, with Chanel Harris-Tavita joined by Luke Metcalf in the halves after his return from an ACL injury, with Tanah Boyd dropping out. If Metcalf is not fit Boyd will likely be the No.7. Mitch Barnett returns form an ACL injury of his own to partner James Fisher-Harris in the front row, with Wayde Egan at hooker to forge a scary front three. Kurt Capwell and Leka Halasima could start in the back row, with Dally M lock of the year Erin Clark in the No.13. However, that move would force Marata Niukore to a bench role, forcing him into the middle of the park. Te Maire Martin looms as the utility ahead of Samuel Healey with Demitric Vaimauga joined by new recruit second-rower Morgan Gannon on the bench after his switch from Leeds on a three-year deal. Tanner Stowers-Smith and Jacob Laban are the odd players out.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;Special moment!&#8221; Walters on trophy lift | 02:42<\/p>\n<p>WESTS TIGERS<\/p>\n<p>1. Jahream Bula <\/p>\n<p>2. Sunia Turuva<\/p>\n<p>3. Taylan May <\/p>\n<p>4. Starford To\u2019a<\/p>\n<p>5. Jeral Skelton<\/p>\n<p>6. Jarome Luai<\/p>\n<p>7. Adam Doueihi<\/p>\n<p>8. Terrell May <\/p>\n<p>9. Api Koroisau <\/p>\n<p>10. Fonua Pole <\/p>\n<p>11. Samuela Fainu<\/p>\n<p>12. Kai Pearce-Paul<\/p>\n<p>13. Alex Twal<\/p>\n<p>14. Latu Fainu<\/p>\n<p>15. Sione Fainu<\/p>\n<p>16. Alex Seyfarth<\/p>\n<p>17. Tony Sukkar<\/p>\n<p>Analysis: Jahream Bula will be the fullback, with Sunia Turuva and Jeral Skelton on the wings, while 18-year-old young gun Heamasi Makasini will likely have to bide his time. Taylan May and Starford To\u2019a will start the season in the centres, but Makasini could force his way into the backline somewhere during the season. Jarome Luai will be the five-eighth, with Adam Doueihi at halfback, while Latu Fainu continues to learn his trade via the bench. Recruit Jock Madden adds depth to the halves, but is unlikely to make the 17, while young gun five-eighth Javon Andrews will have to bide his time for an opportunity after joining the club on a three-year deal. Terrell May and Fonua Pole will start up front, with skipper Api Koroisau at hooker. Kai Pearce-Paul joins the club from the Knights and is expected to start in the second row alongside Samuela Fainu, with Sione Fainu shifting to the bench. Alex Twal locks the scrum after a strong year. Alex Seyfarth and Tony Sukkar round out the bench with the Fainu brothers, but will face pressure from new recruit Mavrik Geyer and Royce Hunt, who fell out of favour last year. <\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"Latrell Mitchell looks set for a permanent switch in a reshuffled South Sydney side, while the Sydney 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