Analysts assess premiership prospects for eight NRL finals teams

NRL experts have evaluated the eight clubs qualifying for the 2026 finals to determine their standing as premiership contenders or pretenders. Panelists from the Loose Carry NRL Podcast identified the New Zealand Warriors, Penrith Panthers, and The Dolphins as strong contenders for the title. While the Sydney Roosters were included in the contender bracket, recent losses and injuries to James Tedesco and Sam Walker have prompted concerns about their current form. The South Sydney Rabbitohs are considered potential contenders, though experts cited inconsistency as a significant hurdle for the team. Conversely, the panel ruled out the Newcastle Knights due to the historical difficulty of winning a premiership shortly after a wooden spoon finish. The North Queensland Cowboys were also labeled pretenders following a recent defensive performance that saw the team concede 80 points. The remaining clubs in the top eight face ongoing scrutiny as the finals series approaches.

• 12:01 AMZero Tackle NRL — Contenders or pretenders? A verdict on all eight NRL finals teams