Get ready for an exciting pre-season in the NRL! We're about to witness some incredible talent emerge, and it's time to shine a spotlight on the players who could make a massive impact in 2026.
The Rise of the Underdogs: Uncovering Hidden Gems
In the world of sports, sometimes the most unexpected players step up and steal the show. And that's exactly what we're about to witness in the upcoming NRL pre-season. Get ready for some hidden talents to shine!
First up, let's talk about Kalani Going. This warrior of a player has had an incredible journey with the Warriors' reserve grade squad, and now he's ready to take on a new challenge with the Panthers. With his versatile skills and leadership as the Warriors' captain, Going could become a permanent fixture in the Panthers' forward pack.
But here's where it gets controversial... Despite his impressive track record, Going hasn't quite solidified his spot in the Warriors' main squad. Will he find his place under the guidance of Ivan Cleary? Only time will tell, but one thing's for sure: he's a player to keep an eye on.
Next, we have Cooper Bai, the talented son of a PNG legend. After making his NRL debut last season, Bai impressed everyone with his skills and is now set to make a run for a round one selection. With the departure of David Fifita, Bai has the perfect opportunity to step into the spotlight. And with interest from big names like the Storm and Roosters, Bai's future looks bright.
And this is the part most people miss... Bai suffered a scary car accident last week, but luckily, he avoided any serious injuries. Coaches are confident he'll be back in action for the trial matches, and we can't wait to see him in action!
Injury Battles and Rising Stars
Sometimes, it's the players who overcome adversity that become the true stars. Take Liam Ison, for example. This young fullback was on his way to becoming an NRL star until an ACL injury put him on the sidelines in 2025. But he's back and ready to make his mark during the Pre-Season Challenge.
Ison has spent the last two years learning from the best, guided by Will Kennedy. And now, he's poised to become a staple of the Sharks' future. Keep an eye on this rising star as he takes the field once again.
A Big Gamble and a Promising Duo
Now, let's talk about a bold move by the Dragons. Shane Flanagan is taking a huge gamble by banking everything on Daniel Atkinson. After parting ways with some key playmakers, the Dragons are relying heavily on Atkinson to prove himself during the Pre-Season Challenge.
Atkinson had an impressive 2024 season, but last year, he spent most of his time on the bench. So, this pre-season is his chance to shine. The Atkinson-Flanagan pairing is one of the most anticipated duos, and all eyes will be on Atkinson. If Flanagan's gamble pays off, the Dragons could be in for a deep run with this dynamic duo.
Uncovering the Next Big Thing
The Rabbitohs had an injury-plagued season in 2025, but it also allowed them to uncover some fresh talent. And one of those hidden gems is Latrell Siegwalt. Last season's top scorer in the QLD cup for the Redcliffe Dolphins, Siegwalt is poised to become Souths' next big thing.
With eight tries and 75 goals in 2025, Siegwalt has already proven himself as an NRL threat. And under the guidance of South Sydney veterans and legend coach Wayne Bennett, the 24-year-old utility back is definitely one to watch during the upcoming preseason.
International Talent and Super League Stars
The Dolphins have made a bold move by recruiting Super League star Morgan Knowles. With over 200 appearances for the St Helens Saints and four Super League premierships under his belt, Knowles is no stranger to success.
Although he lacks NRL experience, Knowles' impressive international history speaks for itself. And with the move reuniting him with coach Kristian Woolf, Knowles is set to make a splash during the Pre-Season Challenge.
More Rising Stars and Newcomers
The Titans' 2025 rookie of the year, Josh Patston, is not slowing down. He's secured a top 30 contract for 2026 and is ready to make a huge impact on the Titans' squad. With the departure of Fifita, Patston will emerge as an important edge option, working alongside talented forwards.
Former Warrior Toby Crosby has also caught the attention of the Panthers, with Ivan Cleary upgrading his contract. Crosby has impressed during his time at the Warriors, and he's one step away from a full-time NRL position.
Samoan International Gordon Chan Kum Tong has signed with the Bulldogs, bringing his experience from Manly and the Blacktown Workers Sea Eagles. Playing around the first-grade squad, Chan Kum Tong has the chance to enter the Bulldogs' top 30.
David Fale, a strong outside back, has signed a two-year contract with the Dragons. He hopes to become a regular in 2027, but he's already pushing for a place in 2026. Fale will be joined by fellow rookie Setu Fu, and both are vying for wing spots in round one.
Versatile Talent and Long-Term Threats
Elijah Salesa-Leauoana is a powerful forward who has joined the Knights' top 30 squad. Although he's looking to start on the bench, the departure of some key players creates an opportunity for more playing time.
Taylor Losalu, the Roosters' NSW Cup player of the year in 2024, made waves last season with his debut for the first-grade side. With the arrival of Daly Cherry-Evans and a healthy Sam Walker, Losalu's versatility as a middle forward will be a huge asset.
Kaiden Lahrs, who impressed during his rookie season in 2025, is looking to further establish himself as a player to watch. With the retirement of prop Jordan McLean, Lahrs is in line for more playing time in 2026.
So, there you have it! These players are ready to make their mark during the NRL 2026 Pre-Season Challenge. Who do you think will shine the brightest? Will the Dragons' gamble pay off? And who will emerge as the next big thing? Let's discuss in the comments and predict the future stars of the NRL!
