The 2026 NRL season is set to be a landmark year, with several high-profile players switching clubs in a series of off-season transfers that have reshaped team rosters. Among the most talked-about moves are Daly Cherry-Evans joining the Sydney Roosters and Dylan Brown’s lucrative contract with the Newcastle Knights, highlighting a busy period of strategic team-building.
While these headline-grabbing transfers have captured the public’s attention, numerous other recruits have the potential to make significant impacts on their new teams. This article ranks the top 15 NRL recruits who are poised to make waves in the upcoming season.
15. Grant Anderson: Storm to Broncos
Grant Anderson has transitioned from the Melbourne Storm to the Brisbane Broncos, filling a critical gap left by Selwyn Cobbo’s departure to the Dolphins. Anderson, known for his speed and work ethic, has signed a two-year deal and is expected to compete for a starting position in the Broncos’ backline. His move comes at a time when the Broncos are looking to bolster their squad following a successful premiership run.
14. Tom Ale: Warriors to Panthers
Tom Ale’s move from the Warriors to the Panthers is part of Penrith’s strategy to rejuvenate their squad. The 26-year-old forward has shown glimpses of his potential and is expected to fill the void left by James Fisher-Harris. Ale’s ability to add punch to the Panthers’ middle could be pivotal as Ivan Cleary looks to maintain their competitive edge.
13. Trey Mooney: Raiders to Knights
Trey Mooney’s transfer to the Knights follows a standout season in the NSW Cup, where he was named at prop in the Team of the Year. The young forward is set to take on a more prominent role at Newcastle, filling the shoes of departing star Leo Thompson. Mooney’s past experience with junior representative teams positions him as a promising asset for the Knights.
12. Reed Mahoney: Bulldogs to Cowboys
Reed Mahoney’s switch to the Cowboys is a strategic move to strengthen their hooker position following Reece Robson’s departure. Mahoney brings a creative edge and solid defensive skills, aiming to enhance North Queensland’s attacking and defensive capabilities under Todd Payten’s guidance.
11. Morgan Gannon: Leeds to Warriors
Morgan Gannon, a rising star from the Super League, joins the Warriors with high expectations. The 22-year-old back rower is eager to test himself in the NRL and adds depth to a robust Warriors forward pack. Gannon’s decision to move reflects his ambition to challenge himself beyond his comfort zone.
10. Jamal Fogarty: Raiders to Sea Eagles
Jamal Fogarty is set to take over the halfback role at the Sea Eagles, replacing Daly Cherry-Evans. Fogarty’s structured playmaking style is anticipated to provide stability and direction, complementing Manly’s attacking talents, including superstar fullback Tom Trbojevic.
9. Selwyn Cobbo: Broncos to Dolphins
Selwyn Cobbo’s move to the Dolphins is a strategic acquisition for the club, which is keen to retain his services long-term. Cobbo’s dynamic attacking abilities make him a key player as the Dolphins aim to establish themselves as a formidable force in the league.
8. Kai Pearce-Paul: Knights to Tigers
The Tigers have made a significant signing in Kai Pearce-Paul, a promising back rower from Newcastle. His move is both a quality and cost-effective acquisition, as Pearce-Paul has the potential to become one of the league’s elite players under Benji Marshall’s leadership.
7. Dylan Brown: Eels to Knights
Dylan Brown’s $11 million move to the Knights is one of the off-season’s most talked-about transfers. Brown is expected to take on a leading role in Newcastle’s playmaking duties, working alongside Kalyn Ponga to enhance the team’s attacking prowess.
6. Jonah Pezet: Storm to Eels
Jonah Pezet’s signing with the Eels is a strategic move to bridge the gap until their young talents are ready for the NRL. Pezet’s experience and short-kicking game will be crucial as he partners with Mitchell Moses to push the Eels towards a finals berth.
5. Daly Cherry-Evans: Sea Eagles to Roosters
Daly Cherry-Evans’ move to the Roosters is a highly anticipated transfer, with the veteran playmaker expected to elevate the team’s performance. His partnership with Sam Walker and James Tedesco is set to create a formidable attacking lineup.
4. Reece Robson: Cowboys to Roosters
Reece Robson’s arrival at the Roosters is a crucial addition, providing elite defensive skills and precise service from the hooker position. His role is to facilitate the playmakers and enhance the team’s overall dynamics.
3. Daniel Atkinson: Sharks to Dragons
Daniel Atkinson’s move to the Dragons addresses a long-standing issue in their playmaking department. As Shane Flanagan’s chief playmaker, Atkinson is expected to lead the team and guide them towards a potential finals appearance.
2. Leo Thompson: Knights to Bulldogs
Leo Thompson’s transfer to the Bulldogs marks a significant step in strengthening their forward pack. The New Zealand international is poised to become a key figure in the Bulldogs’ front row, adding size and strength to their lineup.
1. David Fifita: Titans to Rabbitohs
David Fifita’s move to the Rabbitohs reunites him with coach Wayne Bennett, offering a fresh start for the talented back rower. Fifita’s partnership with Latrell Mitchell and Cody Walker is expected to be a formidable force, revitalizing his career and boosting the Rabbitohs’ prospects.
As the 2026 NRL season approaches, these recruits are poised to make significant impacts on their respective teams. With strategic acquisitions and tactical adjustments, the league is set for an exciting and competitive year.
