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The Bears will enter the comp and there\u2019s been plenty of debate about the strength of their first squad while Broncos coach Michael Maguire has a huge call to make with his halves.<\/p>\n
Foxsports.com.au takes a look at each club and its predicted Round 1 squad with a full analysis of each.<\/p>\n
BEARS<\/p>\n
1. Mason Barber<\/p>\n
2. Harry Newman<\/p>\n
3. Sean Russell<\/p>\n
4. Gehamat Shibasaki<\/p>\n
5. Nick Meaney<\/p>\n
6. Tyran Wishart<\/p>\n
7. Toby Sexton<\/p>\n
8. Corey Horsburgh<\/p>\n
9. Tyson Smoothy<\/p>\n
10. Liam Henry<\/p>\n
11. Siosifa Talakai<\/p>\n
12. Scott Sorensen<\/p>\n
13. Morgan Smithies<\/p>\n
14. Jack Cole<\/p>\n
15. Josh Curran<\/p>\n
16. Mikolaj Oledzki<\/p>\n
17. James McDonnell<\/p>\n
18. Luke Smith<\/p>\n
19. Apa Twidle<\/p>\n
Analysis: Mal Meninga has a host of big selection calls for the Bears\u2019 long-awaited return. Cowboys recruit Mason Barber looks set to win the No.1 jersey, but backline spots are up for grabs. Harry Newman and Luke Laulilii are likely fighting it out for one wing spot, with Sean Russell and Gehamat Shibasaki the club\u2019s likely centre pairing. Nick Meaney could also slot into the centres, but is a strong chance of starting on the wing. In the halves, Toby Sexton is set to wear the No.7 jersey with Jack Cole, Tyran Wishart and Niwhai Puru the options to start at five-eighth. We\u2019re tipping former Storm gun Wishart to get the nod, with Cole starting on the bench as a utility to give Meninga as much spine flexibility as possible. That means Tyson Smoothy will likely start at hooker while Apa Twidle, as an outside back on the bench, provides even more flexibility. Perth\u2019s forward pack certainly looks strong, with Corey Horsburgh and Liam Henry in the front row <\/a>and Siosifa Talakai and Scott Sorensen on the edges. Morgan Smithies could take the sting out of the contest at lock, with Josh Curran possibly used off the bench where he was a proven performer for the Bulldogs. English duo Mikolaj Oledzki and James McDonnell are almost certainties to feature, while the remaining bench spot could go to any number of players, but we\u2019re tipping Luke Smith to get the nod.<\/p>\n PERTH, AUSTRALIA – APRIL 10: Mal Meninga has his work cut out for himSource: Supplied<\/p>\n PANTHERS<\/p>\n 1. Dylan Edwards<\/p>\n 2. Tom Jenkins<\/p>\n 3. Casey McLean<\/p>\n 4. Paul Alamoti<\/p>\n 5. Brian To\u2019o<\/p>\n 6. Jaxen Edgar<\/p>\n 7. Jack Cogger<\/p>\n 8. Moses Leota<\/p>\n 9. Mitch Kenny<\/p>\n 10. Lindsay Smith<\/p>\n 11. Isaiah Papali\u2019i<\/p>\n 12. Liam Martin<\/p>\n 13. Billy Phillips<\/p>\n 14. Billy Scott<\/p>\n 15. Luron Patea<\/p>\n 16. Zakauri Clarke<\/p>\n 17. Izack Tago<\/p>\n 18. Luke Garner<\/p>\n 19. Jett Cleary<\/p>\n Analysis: Penrith are aiming to have Nathan Cleary ready for Round 1 as he recovers from a compound leg fracture but they won\u2019t rush their star man back before he\u2019s 100 per cent fit. Ivan Cleary could therefore consider a left-field option for Round 1 and slot Jaxen Edgar into the No.6 jersey, with the NSW Cup Player of the Year from last season having previously been a five-eighth. Elsewhere, Isaah Yeo looks set to sit out the start of the season with his surgery due to take place after his World Cup campaign on his pectoral injury. Billy Phillips will take his place, while the departures of Scott Sorensen and Liam Henry leave a gaping hole in Penrith\u2019s forward stocks. Rising star Zakauri Clarke looks set to take the leap to first grade permanently after he was handed a fresh contract, while Luron Patea, Izack Tago and Luke Garner could have increased roles in the forward pack. Although Jett Cleary\u2019s arrival at the Panthers hasn\u2019t been confirmed, he looks set to find a spot on the extended bench given Jack Cole is also moving to Perth.<\/p>\n “Teddy knows!” Bostock among his idols | 04:04<\/p>\n WARRIORS<\/p>\n 1. Taine Tuaupiki <\/p>\n 2. Dallin Watene-Zelezniak<\/p>\n 3. Leka Halasima<\/p>\n 4. Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad<\/p>\n 5. Will Warbrick<\/p>\n 6. Chanel Harris-Tavita<\/p>\n 7. Tanah Boyd<\/p>\n 8. James Fisher-Harris<\/p>\n 9. Wayde Egan<\/p>\n 10. Jackson Ford<\/p>\n 11. Jacob Laban<\/p>\n 12. Kurt Capewell<\/p>\n 13. Erin Clark<\/p>\n 14. Sam Healey<\/p>\n 15. Tanner Stowers-Smith<\/p>\n 16. Demitric Vaimauga<\/p>\n 17. Eddie Ieremia-Toeava<\/p>\n 18. Sam McIntyre<\/p>\n 19. Te Maire Martin<\/p>\n Analysis: The Warriors once again look very strong heading into Round 1. The biggest selection call comes in the halves, with Andrew Webster likely to have Tanah Boyd available after his horror ACL injury. Boyd\u2019s form was immense to start the season and he is deserving of first crack in the No.7 jersey, likely displacing Te Maire Martin who shapes as a versatile option on the bench with Chanel Harris-Tavita in the No.6. Warriors CEO Cameron George recently revealed Leka Halasima is likely to remain in the centres, with new recruit Will Warbrick a strong chance of getting the nod on the wing to oust Alofiana Khan-Pereira \u2014 if healthy \u2014 to return from an Achilles injury after Khan-Pereira slipped down the pecking order to close out New Zealand\u2019s campaign. Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad did a good job in the centres, while the Warriors will again field a formidable pack, with Mitch Barnett\u2019s departure likely opening the way for Cowboys recruit Sam McIntyre to join the middle rotation from the bench.<\/p>\n DOLPHINS<\/p>\n 1. Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow<\/p>\n 2. Selwyn Cobbo<\/p>\n 3. Herbie Farnworth<\/p>\n 4. Jack Bostock<\/p>\n 5. Tevita Naufahu<\/p>\n 6. George Williams<\/p>\n 7. Isaiya Katoa<\/p>\n 8. Tom Gilbert<\/p>\n 9. Jeremy Marshall-King<\/p>\n 10. Tom Flegler<\/p>\n 11. Kulikefu Finefeuiaki<\/p>\n 12. Connolly Lemuelu<\/p>\n 13. Max Plath<\/p>\n 14. Brad Schneider<\/p>\n 15. Francis Molo<\/p>\n 16. Kurt Donoghoe<\/p>\n 17. Morgan Knowles<\/p>\n 18. Lewis Symonds<\/p>\n 19. Trai Fuller<\/p>\n Analysis: The Dolphins have lost Kodi Nikorima in a big blow, with English recruit George Williams set to take his place in the halves. With Jamayne Isaako departing, Tevita Naufahu is set to step up and take his place and he\u2019s an obvious NRL star in the making. Max Plath could get the nod at lock, giving Connelly Lemuelu and Kulikefu Finefeuiaki the starting back row spots despite the former ending the season on the bench. That move allows Morgan Knowles to start on the bench alongside Francis Molo, strengthening Kristian Woolf\u2019s middle rotation. With Kurt Donoghoe and Trai Fuller the remaining bench players, one spot remains open. Felise Kaufusi is the obvious pick, but young gun Lewis Symonds could also get the nod after a strong season last year, earning him a top 30 contract after he made his NRL debut in a look to the future.<\/p>\n Trent Robinson\u2019s Roosters will be without Daniel Tupou in 2027.Source: Getty Images<\/p>\n ROOSTERS<\/p>\n 1. James Tedesco<\/p>\n 2. Reuben Garrick<\/p>\n 3. Billy Smith<\/p>\n 4. Robert Toia<\/p>\n 5. Rex Bassingthwaighte<\/p>\n 6. Hugo Savala <\/p>\n 7. Sam Walker <\/p>\n 8. Lindsay Collins<\/p>\n 9. Reece Robson<\/p>\n 10. Naufahu Whyte<\/p>\n 11. Salesi Foketi<\/p>\n 12. Siua Wong<\/p>\n 13. Victor Radley<\/p>\n 14. Benaiah Ioelu<\/p>\n 15. Blake Steep<\/p>\n 16. Nat Butcher<\/p>\n 17. Egan Butcher<\/p>\n 18. Taylor Losalu<\/p>\n 19. Cody Ramsey<\/p>\n Analysis: The Roosters have endured a mass exodus after their premiership-winning campaign, with Daniel Tupou retiring, Mark Nawaqanitawase and Angus Crichton both switching to the 15-man code as well as Daly Cherry-Evans (Hull FC), Spencer Leniu (Eels) and Connor Watson (Dragons) signing elsewhere. Losing both of their wingers shapes as a mammoth loss but it\u2019s offset by the arrival of Manly recruit Reuben Garrick. While Cody Ramsey is an option, rising star Rex Bassingthwaighte could also start on the wing next season. Hugo Savala will slot straight into Cherry-Evans\u2019 No.6 jersey, with the likes of Blake Steep, Egan Butcher and Taylor Losalu stepping up to fill the remaining bench spots. Suia Wong and Salesi Foketi look to be Trent Robinson\u2019s long-term backrowers, while Lindsay Collins, Naufahu Whyte and Victor Radley are also certainties to start should they get through their respective World Cup campaigns unscathed.<\/p>\n SHARKS<\/p>\n 1. Will Kennedy <\/p>\n 2. Ronaldo Mulitalo<\/p>\n 3. Michael Gabrael<\/p>\n 4. KL Iro<\/p>\n 5. Sam Stonestreet<\/p>\n 6. Braydon Trindall<\/p>\n 7. Nicho Hynes<\/p>\n 8. Thomas Hazelton<\/p>\n 9. Blayke Brailey<\/p>\n 10. Addin Fonua-Blake<\/p>\n 11. Briton Nikora <\/p>\n 12. Teig Wilton<\/p>\n 13. Jesse Colquhoun<\/p>\n 14. Hohepa Puru<\/p>\n 15. Oregon Kaufusi<\/p>\n 16. Owen Trout<\/p>\n 17. Felix Fa\u2019atili <\/p>\n 18. Billy Burns<\/p>\n 19. Liam Ison<\/p>\n Analysis: The Sharks are set to field somewhat of a new-look team in 2027, with both Sione Katoa and Jesse Ramien departing for the Cowboys. Sam Stonestreet is the likely man to take up a wing spot, while Michael Gabrael and Riley Jones will compete for the vacant centre role. The starting forward pack remains, but on the bench some new faces could get a call-up. Super League recruit Owen Trout is set to earn a spot on the bench after arriving from Leigh, while rising star Felix Fa\u2019atili could also make his debut after a strong campaign for Newtown, being signed on for the 2027 and 2028 seasons earlier this year. Liam Ison is also set to give Will Kennedy a run for his money in the No.1 jersey, with the rising star hot on his heels to take over at fullback.<\/p>\n Kiwis prepare to unleash Ponga | 01:02<\/p>\n RABBITOHS<\/p>\n 1. Matthew Dufty<\/p>\n 2. Alex Johnston<\/p>\n 3. Latrell Mitchell<\/p>\n 4. Jack Wighton<\/p>\n 5. Campbell Graham<\/p>\n 6. Cody Walker<\/p>\n 7. Ashton Ward<\/p>\n 8. Tevita Tatola<\/p>\n 9. Brandon Smith<\/p>\n 10. Payne Haas<\/p>\n 11. Tallis Duncan<\/p>\n 12. David Fifita<\/p>\n 13. Cameron Murray<\/p>\n 14. Jye Gray<\/p>\n 15. Sean Keppie<\/p>\n 16. Lachlan Hubner<\/p>\n 17. Euan Aitken<\/p>\n 18. Thomas Fletcher<\/p>\n 19. Latrell Siegwalt<\/p>\n Handy addition…Picture: NRL ImagerySource: Supplied<\/p>\n Analysis: Look who has arrived. Payne Haas is the big addition to this team <\/a>in a straight swap for prop Keaon Koloamatangi, who has departed for the Dragons. Haas joins what looks to be a lethal team with strike all across the park. Wayne Bennett also has a huge decision to make at fullback, with Jye Gray and Matt Dufty once again competing for the role, with the latter likely to get the nod while Gray remains on the bench. As it stands, Cody Walker is without a contract for the 2027 season, but reports suggest a deal will get done for him to line up alongside Ashton Ward at halfback. If not, expect Jamie Humprheys to partner Ward. He too is off-contract but it is hard to see Souths losing both. Tallis Duncan will be hopeful of starting the season in his preferred back row slot, with Latrell Mitchell set to be fit for Round 1 alongside Jack Wighton. Elsewhere, young gun Thomas Fletcher could get the call-up on the bench to join Bennett\u2019s middle forward rotation.<\/p>\n KNIGHTS<\/p>\n 1. Kalyn Ponga <\/p>\n 2. Dom Young <\/p>\n 3. Fletcher Hunt<\/p>\n 4. Bradman Best<\/p>\n 5. Greg Marzhew<\/p>\n 6. Fletcher Sharpe <\/p>\n 7. Dylan Brown<\/p>\n 8. Jacob Saifiti<\/p>\n 9. Phoenix Crossland<\/p>\n 10. Trey Mooney<\/p>\n 11. Dylan Lucas<\/p>\n 12. Francis Manuleleua<\/p>\n 13. Mat Croker<\/p>\n 14. Harrison Graham<\/p>\n 15. Jermaine McEwen<\/p>\n 16. Marata Niukore<\/p>\n 17. Cody Hopwood<\/p>\n 18. Lachlan Crouch<\/p>\n 19. Sandon Smith<\/p>\n Analysis: The Knights will get their $1.3 million halfback Dylan Brown back but will he make it for Round 1? The whole front row was missing on Grand Final day and will also be a welcome addition to the squad come the opening round. Dylan Lucas was one of the club\u2019s best players before a nasty leg injury. He should be at his peak next year and is good enough to get back into the starting side, but how can Jermaine McEwen or Francis Manuleleua be demoted after busting onto the scene in 2026? Justin Holbrook could have a tough decision on his hands, but McEwen could be the one to make way. Dane Gagai will be a loss and Fletcher Hunt may take his centre spot. Elsewhere, Sandon Smith was great replacing Brown when he got injured but will need to move back to the bench as he did to start the 2026 season. Marata Niukore has to be in the squad given the size of his contract and will provide firepower off the bench alongside rising stars Cody Hopwood and Lachlan Crouch. Phoenix Crossland was suspended for four matches because of an ugly tackle in the prelim final but the World Cup matches count towards his ban, meaning he\u2019ll be available for Round 1.<\/p>\n The Knights will have a stronger squad to kick off Round 1.Source: News Corp Australia<\/p>\n COWBOYS<\/p>\n 1. Jaxon Purdue<\/p>\n 2. Sione Katoa <\/p>\n 3. Jesse Ramien <\/p>\n 4. Tom Chester <\/p>\n 5. Braidon Burns <\/p>\n 6. Jake Clifford <\/p>\n 7. Tom Dearden <\/p>\n 8. Thomas Mikaele <\/p>\n 9. Reed Mahoney <\/p>\n 10. Jason Taumalolo <\/p>\n 11. Heilum Luki <\/p>\n 12. Jeremiah Nanai <\/p>\n 13. Reuben Cotter. <\/p>\n 14. Soni Luke <\/p>\n 15. Griffin Neame <\/p>\n 16. Coen Hess <\/p>\n 17. Joe Chan <\/p>\n 18. Liam Sutton <\/p>\n 19. Xavier Kerrisk <\/p>\n Analysis: The Cowboys have lost a raft of players this season and in turn, have several roster spots still open for 2027. Scott Drinkwater is the big name to go after the fullback signed a rich deal with the Dragons. He\u2019ll be replaced at the back by Jaxon Purdue. Purdue has played centre at five eighth so far, but he\u2019s expected to be given the first crack at becoming the club\u2019s long-term No. 1. NQ have added to Cronulla outside backs in Jesse Ramien and Sione Katoa and the pair will slot straight into the starting line up. Powerhouse middle forward Tom Mikaele enjoyed a breakout year and should be one of the two starting props from next season. New recruit Joe Chan adds versatility and likely starts on the bench given the Cowboys\u2019 starting back row of Nanai, Luki and Cotter is one of the league\u2019s best. <\/p>\n SEA EAGLES<\/p>\n 1. Tom Trbojevic <\/p>\n 2. Lehi Hopoate<\/p>\n 3. Clayton Faulalo<\/p>\n 4. Tolu Koula<\/p>\n 5. Jason Saab<\/p>\n 6. Luke Brooks<\/p>\n 7. Jamal Fogarty<\/p>\n 8. Taniela Paseka<\/p>\n 9. Brandon Wakeham<\/p>\n 10. Simione Laiafi<\/p>\n 11. Haumole Olakau\u2019atu<\/p>\n 12. Ben Trbojevic<\/p>\n 13. Jake Trbojevic<\/p>\n 14. Jake Simpkin<\/p>\n 15. Caleb Navale<\/p>\n 16. Davvy Moale<\/p>\n 17. Kobe Hetherington<\/p>\n 18. Ethan Bullemor<\/p>\n 19. Joey Walsh<\/p>\n Analysis: The Sea Eagles will welcome back some key faces for Round 1, with Luke Brooks pushing to be fit for their season opener after he suffered an ACL injury in Round 17 last season. He will slot straight back into the No.6 jersey if fit, shuffling Joey Walsh back to the bench. Manly\u2019s backline is full of familiar faces, with Foran now not forced to leave one of Lehi Hopoate or Clayton Faulalo out of the side with Reuben Garrick departing for the Roosters. Nathan Brown has also left the club, with Davvy Moale the likely man to take his spot on the bench after arriving from the Storm. Elsewhere, Brandon Wakeham was Foran\u2019s preferred option in the No.9 jersey with Jake Simpkin deputising on the bench as a utility option. Once again, Haumole Olakau\u2019atu and Ben Trbojevic partner in the back row with Jake Trbojevic at lock and Taniela Paseka and Simione Laiafi the starting front rowers. Expect Caleb Navale to have a huge season after returning late in the year from his ACL injury.<\/p>\n STORM<\/p>\n 1. Sua Faalogo<\/p>\n 2. Jamayne Isaako<\/p>\n 3. Jack Howarth<\/p>\n 4. Bronson Xerri <\/p>\n 5. Xavier Coates<\/p>\n 6. Cameron Munster <\/p>\n 7. Jahrome Hughes<\/p>\n 8. Josh King<\/p>\n 9. Harry Grant<\/p>\n 10. Stefano Utoikamanu<\/p>\n 11. Oryn Keeley<\/p>\n 12. Ativalu Lisati<\/p>\n 13. Trent Loiero<\/p>\n 14. Hayden Watson<\/p>\n 15. Cooper Clarke<\/p>\n 16. Kelma Tuilagi<\/p>\n 17. Stanley Huen<\/p>\n 18. Alec MacDonald<\/p>\n 19. Adam Pompey<\/p>\n Analysis: Craig Bellamy will be without Will Warbrick, Tyran Wishart and Nick Meaney this season after the trio signed elsewhere for 2027. However, to replace that trio, the Storm have made some strong signings, bringing Jamayne Isaako and Bronson Xerri to the club to fill their backline spots. Adam Pompey is also in contention for a centre spot after he made the move from the Warriors, while Melbourne\u2019s spine will remain intact. Ativalu Lisati is set to be fit to take the field in Round 1 after his season was cut short due to injury and he could join Oryn Keeley in the back row. Elsewhere, Eels signing Kelma Tuilagi could find a spot on the bench alongside Cooper Clarke and Alec MacDonald, with Hayden Watson a potential utility option. Stanley Huen could be the latest Storm forward to get consistent minutes after he made his NRL debut last year and played four games, including a 51-minute stint off the bench against Manly in Round 17.<\/p>\n Watson’s premiership ring disaster | 00:25<\/p>\n RAIDERS<\/p>\n 1. Kaeo Weekes<\/p>\n 2. Sav Tamale<\/p>\n 3. Simi Sasagi<\/p>\n 4. Matt Timoko<\/p>\n 5. Xavier Savage<\/p>\n 6. Ethan Strange<\/p>\n 7. Ethan Sanders<\/p>\n 8. Joe Tapine<\/p>\n 9. Owen Pattie<\/p>\n 10. Ata Mariota<\/p>\n 11. Hudson Young<\/p>\n 12. Matty Nicholson<\/p>\n 13. Noah Martin<\/p>\n 14. Daine Laurie<\/p>\n 15. Zac Hosking<\/p>\n 16. Joe Roddy <\/p>\n 17. Jaiyden Hunt<\/p>\n 18. Coby Black<\/p>\n 19. Vena Patuki-Case<\/p>\n Analysis: The big call facing Ricky Stuart this off-season will be at halfback. Coby Black was unbelievable in his NRL debut in Round 27 <\/a>but Ethan Sanders was strong all season and won Dally M Rookie of the Year. Sanders likely begins Round 1 in the No.7 jersey and alongside Ethan Strange in the halves, but don\u2019t be surprised if we see a Black\/Sanders halves pairing at some stage next season with Strange moved to either lock or centre. Sav Tamale regressed in 2026 following a terrific 2025 campaign but he gives this team a bit of x-factor so expect his to start next season on one wing with Xavier Savage on the other. Tom Starling has moved on so the promising Owen Pattie will jump into the starting hooker spot. Expect Ata Mariota to start in the engine room in place of the departed Corey Horsburgh while Matty Nicholson or Noah Martin could be the new starting lock forward. Hudson Young, meanwhile, will be in a race against the clock to return from his torn Achilles. New recruit Jaiyden Hunt will be knocking on the door as will another new face in Lipoi Hopoi, a prop joining the Raiders from Canterbury. Unfortunately he suffered a serious knee injury at the end of this year, meaning Vena Patuki-Case gets the nod to round out the extended bench.<\/p>\n BULLDOGS<\/p>\n 1. Connor Tracey<\/p>\n 2. Jacob Kiraz<\/p>\n 3. Matt Burton<\/p>\n 4. Enari Tuala<\/p>\n 5. Jesse McLean <\/p>\n 6. Stephen Crichton <\/p>\n 7. Lachlan Galvin<\/p>\n 8. Leo Thompson<\/p>\n 9. Freddy Lussick<\/p>\n 10. Max King<\/p>\n 11. Viliame Kikau<\/p>\n 12. Jacob Preston<\/p>\n 13. Sitili Tupouniua<\/p>\n 14. Bailey Hayward<\/p>\n 15. Jaeman Salmon<\/p>\n 16. Jack Underhill<\/p>\n 17. Harry Hayes<\/p>\n 18. Alekolasimi Jones<\/p>\n 19. Mitchell Woods<\/p>\n Analysis: This side has chopped and changed players in key positions for 18 months now and again it will be interesting to see who partners Galvin in the halves. The club has told Matt Burton they see him as a centre moving forward so skipper Stephen Crichton likely stays at six. If Mitchell Woods can stay fit, he might be a chance to partner Lachlan Galvin in the halves at some point, which is what the club has been planning on for a couple of years now. Freddy Lussick was signed to a good deal and his form at Penrith was good enough for him to earn a starting spot over Bailey Hayward. Another ex-Penrith player Jesse McLean will battle it out with Jethro Rinakama for a wing spot. Rinakama has had handling issues and it might help the newcomer get first crack on the wing. Sitili Tupouniua was too good last year before he got injured not to be in the starting side, which means Jaeman Salmon drops back to the bench. With Kurt Mann and Josh Curran off to other clubs, there will be forward bench spots up for grabs. <\/p>\n EELS<\/p>\n 1. Isaiah Iongi<\/p>\n 2. Bailey Simonsson<\/p>\n 3. Jordan Samrani<\/p>\n 4. Will Penisini<\/p>\n 5. Brian Kelly<\/p>\n 6. Jarome Luai<\/p>\n 7. Mitchell Moses<\/p>\n 8. Sam Tuivaiti<\/p>\n 9. Tallyn Da Silva<\/p>\n 10. Junior Paulo<\/p>\n 11. Jack Williams<\/p>\n 12. Jaydn Su\u2019A<\/p>\n 13. J\u2019maine Hopgood<\/p>\n 14. Ronald Volkman<\/p>\n 15. Spencer Leniu<\/p>\n 16. Matt Doorey<\/p>\n 17. Kitione Kautoga<\/p>\n 18. Harrison Edwards<\/p>\n 19. Joash Papalii<\/p>\n Analysis: Some big inclusions for the Eels even before we talk about their signings. J\u2019maine Hopgood returns after an ACL injury, while Matt Doorey is also likely to return from an ACL rupture of his own. Doorey was in fine form to open the season before he went down in Round 4 and will likely find a spot on the bench, while Hopgood could wear the No.13. Elsewhere, Jarome Luai and Jaydn Su\u2019A slot into this side as the club\u2019s marquee recruits in 2027. Luai forges a strong halves pairing with Mitchell Moses, while Tallyn Da Silva is also likely the man joining them at hooker. Jack Williams could shuffle into the back row full time, with Junior Paulo and Sam Tuivaiti in the front row. Meanwhile, another marquee signing is set to start off the bench in Spencer Leniu, with it being proven in the past he is best used as a firecracker when injected into the game. Joash Papalii is currently without a contract, but if he remains will likely slot onto the bench as cover in the outside backs. <\/p>\n Leniu joins Parramatta on four-year deal | 00:47<\/p>\n BRONCOS<\/p>\n 1. Reece Walsh<\/p>\n 2. Deine Mariner<\/p>\n 3. Kotoni Staggs<\/p>\n 4. Dane Gagai<\/p>\n 5. Antonio Verhoeven<\/p>\n 6. Ezra Mam<\/p>\n 7. Jonah Pezet<\/p>\n 8. Mitch Barnett<\/p>\n 9. Billy Walters<\/p>\n 10. Xavier Willison<\/p>\n 11. Jordan Riki<\/p>\n 12. Brendan Piakura<\/p>\n 13. Patrick Carrigan<\/p>\n 14. Ben Hunt<\/p>\n 15. Ben Talty<\/p>\n 16. Aublix Tawha<\/p>\n 17. Shawn Blore<\/p>\n 18. VJ Semu<\/p>\n 19. Josiah Karapani<\/p>\n Where does Ezra Mam fit in Maguire\u2019s plans for 2027? Picture: Nigel HallettSource: News Corp Australia<\/p>\n Analysis: Michael Maguire has a tough job on his hands here. The arrivals of Mitch Barnett and Dane Gagai quickly solve two problems for the Broncos, slotting into the spots left vacant by the exits of Gehamat Shibasaki and Payne Haas. However, Brisbane have a huge call to make in the halves, with Jonah Pezet, Ben Hunt and Tom Duffy all vying for the No.7 jersey, while there\u2019s also plenty of speculation about the future of Ezra Mam who is on a deal worth a reported $750,000 until the end of 2029. Pezet could get first crack after he was signed with a view for him to be the club\u2019s long-term halfback, meaning Hunt slots in on the bench as a handy hooker and halves utility. On the wing, Josiah Karapani is the obvious selection. However, Antonio Verhoeven showed immense promise last season and with another NRL pre-season under his belt could emerge as a smokey for a starting spot. Elsewhere, the Broncos bench looks somewhat thin when it comes to their forward stocks, with Storm recruit Shawn Blore potentially riding the pine to start the season in the middle rotation alongside Aublix Tawha, Ben Talty and rising star VJ Semu.<\/p>\n TIGERS<\/p>\n 1. Jahream Bula<\/p>\n 2. Heamasi Makasini<\/p>\n 3. Solomone Saukuru<\/p>\n 4. Taylan May<\/p>\n 5. Sunia Turuva<\/p>\n 6. Jake Averillo<\/p>\n 7. Adam Doueihi<\/p>\n 8. Terrell May<\/p>\n 9. Api Koroisau<\/p>\n 10. Alex Twal<\/p>\n 11. Samuela Fainu<\/p>\n 12. Kai Pearce-Paul<\/p>\n 13. Kurt Mann<\/p>\n 14. Latu Fainu<\/p>\n 15. Alex Seyfarth<\/p>\n 16. Tyson Frizell<\/p>\n 17. Fonua Pole<\/p>\n 18. Sione Fainu<\/p>\n 19. Jock Madden<\/p>\n Analysis: The Tigers welcome a host of new faces into this side, with Jake Averillo, Kurt Mann and Tyson Frizell all signing on. Mann\u2019s experience could be best used at lock, with Frizell is a strong chance of coming off the bench while Averillo has been floated as an option to start at five-eighth, meaning Latu Fainu and Jock Madden will be resigned to a role on the bench. Heamasi Makasini and Solomone Saukuru could join Taylan May and Sunia Turuva in the Tigers\u2019 backline, with the rest of their forward pack sticking solid to the one that was often deployed last season. As expected, Adam Doueihi could wear the No.1 with Jahream Bula and Api Koroisau joining him in the spine.<\/p>\n TITANS<\/p>\n 1. Keano Kini <\/p>\n 2. Jojo Fifita <\/p>\n 3. AJ Brimson <\/p>\n 4. Mawene Hiroti <\/p>\n 5. Siale Faeamani <\/p>\n 6. Jayden Campbell <\/p>\n 7. Zane Harrison <\/p>\n 8. Mo Fotuaika <\/p>\n 9. Oliver Pascoe <\/p>\n 10. Tino Fa\u2019asuamaleaui <\/p>\n 11. Beau Fermor <\/p>\n 12. Arama Hau <\/p>\n 13. Chris Randall <\/p>\n 14. Luke Hanson <\/p>\n 15. Luke Sommerton <\/p>\n 16. Cooper Bai <\/p>\n 17. Klese Haas <\/p>\n 18. Kurtis Morrin <\/p>\n 19. Jensen Taumoepeau<\/p>\n Analysis: The Titans lost their leading try scorer and metre eater in Philip Sami and the battle to secure his wing spot probably comes down to Max Feagai and Siale Faeamani. Josh Hannay likely gives Faeamani first crack as he\u2019s the player with the most upside. Former Shark Mawene Hiroti should slot straight into the centres. Cooper Bai will be pushing for a starting spot after injury ruled him out of the World Cup, but he will be fully fit for pre-season training as should young halfback Zane Harrison. The promising playmaker\u2019s contract situation has been in the news<\/a> of late and it will be interesting to see if the Gold Coast local extends or entertains offers from rivals. Luke Hanson will be a nice addition to the halves stocks after coming over from the Warriors. He\u2019s mainly a five-eighth but will add depth and even has the ability to drop back and play fullback so he should become part of Hannay\u2019s bench. <\/p>\n Chooks pay tribute to retiring Tupou | 01:40<\/p>\n DRAGONS<\/p>\n 1. Scott Drinkwater<\/p>\n 2. Phillip Sami<\/p>\n 3. Moses Suli<\/p>\n 4. Clint Gutherson<\/p>\n 5. Valentine Holmes <\/p>\n 6. Kodi Nikorima<\/p>\n 7. Luke Metcalf <\/p>\n 8. Keaon Koloamatangi<\/p>\n 9. Jacob Liddle<\/p>\n 10. Toby Couchman<\/p>\n 11. Dylan Egan<\/p>\n 12. Hamish Stewart<\/p>\n 13. Ryan Couchman<\/p>\n 14. Connor Watson<\/p>\n 15. Loko Pasifiki Tonga<\/p>\n 16. Jacob Webster<\/p>\n 17. Josh Kerr<\/p>\n 18. Jacob Halangahu<\/p>\n 19. Daniel Atkinson<\/p>\n Analysis: The Dragons have gone on a spending spree and have targeted spine players. They will have a new fullback (Scott Drinkwater) and new halves in Kodi Nikorima and Luke Metcalf, which is desperately needed given the team\u2019s struggles to score points in 2026. They\u2019ve also beefed up their forward pack with star middle Keaon Koloamatangi along with Connor Watson who will come on to help Jacob Liddle in the hooking role or play in the halves or lock if needed. The Dragons have also brought in Gold Coast\u2019s leading try-scorer and metre-eater in Phillip Sami so they\u2019ve done really well to change the squad in a short period of time. They targeted good players who were unwanted by their former clubs, so, for the most part, didn\u2019t have to pay overs for the majority of them. The Couchman brothers along with Hamish Stewart are only going to get better, so there\u2019s not many excuses for the Dragons in 2027.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"A host of NRL clubs will see huge change to their playing rosters for 2027. The defending premiers,…\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":928448,"comment_status":"","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[568],"tags":[64,63,761,762,158,85],"class_list":["post-928447","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","category-nrl","tag-au","tag-australia","tag-national-rugby-league","tag-nationalrugbyleague","tag-nrl","tag-sports"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/928447","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=928447"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/928447\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/928448"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=928447"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=928447"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=928447"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}