The 2026 NRL season is heating up, with several teams vying for the top spots and others struggling to find their footing. As the regular season draws to a close, the focus shifts to the finals series, where every game is crucial. Here's a look at some of the key talking points and predictions for the upcoming rounds.
Broncos' Halfback Battle
The Brisbane Broncos are in the midst of a three-way battle for the coveted halfback spot. Ben Hunt, Tom Duffy, and Jonah Pezet are all vying for the No.7 jersey, with Hunt expressing his desire to wear it next season. With Hunt set to turn 37 next year, the competition is fierce, and he'll be looking to make the most of his opportunity against the Canterbury Bulldogs on Thursday night. Duffy has shown glimpses of promise and was handed a contract extension, while Pezet, who was signed as the heir to Adam Reynolds' throne, has struggled with injuries and hasn't lived up to expectations.
Dolphins' Defense Impresses
The Dolphins have put any doubts about their legitimacy to bed with an outstanding road win over the Roosters. Their defense, in particular, has been impressive, holding a potent Roosters attack to just two tries. Max Plath, Tom Gilbert, Tom Flegler, and Kurt Donoghoe have all been key to the Dolphins' success, and their middle forwards have proven they can stop a powerful forward pack. However, the lack of experience at the business end of the season could be a concern for the Dolphins as they prepare for the finals.
Roosters' Style Shake-Up
The Sydney Roosters are bracing for life without Sam Walker, who has suffered a season-ending ankle injury. Without Walker's off-the-cuff style, the Roosters may be forced to play a different style of football in the finals. Veteran Daly Cherry-Evans and Hugo Savala will step in, and former Rooster Cooper Cronk expects the team to construct more shape plays. The Roosters have drifted to $9 to win the title, and their rivals, especially bogey team Penrith, will be hoping to take advantage of any changes in their style.
Cowboys' Jekyll and Hyde
The North Queensland Cowboys have had a decent season, but there has been plenty of indifference. They have won games against the Roosters, Panthers, and Brisbane, but have also lost to Parramatta twice and suffered a 70-point thrashing from the Chooks. Their gap between their best and worst performances is significant, and they will need to find consistency if they are to make a run at the title. Eels star Mitch Moses believes the Cowboys can be a 'Jekyll and Hyde' type side, and he sees Tommy Dearden as a key player for them in the finals.
Sharks' Slide Surprising
The Cronulla Sharks were on a five-match winning streak and had a soft draw for the run home, but three losses in four games have dashed their top four hopes. The loss of Braydon Trindall has weakened the team, and their performance against the Eels showed they weren't mentally dialed in. The Sharks will need to find some steel if they are to make a run at the finals, and league legend Cooper Cronk believes they need to become more willing to roll up their sleeves.
Eels' Halfback Dilemma
The Parramatta Eels are in a dilemma with their halves pairing. Jarome Luai, who was set to join the team in 2027, has struggled for form, while Ronald Volkman has been impressive throughout the season. The Eels have handed Volkman a two-year contract extension, and he is mounting a strong case to be given first crack in Parramatta's spine next season. League legend Gorden Tallis believes the Eels should stick with Luai, but the team's performance will ultimately decide who starts at halfback.
As the season draws to a close, the finals series promises to be an exciting affair, with several teams vying for the title. The Broncos' halfback battle, the Dolphins' defense, the Roosters' style shake-up, the Cowboys' Jekyll and Hyde nature, the Sharks' slide, and the Eels' halfback dilemma are all key talking points that will shape the upcoming rounds. Who will come out on top? Only time will tell.
