There's a lot going on in the NRL right now so let's look at some of the most trending topics in the game right now!
1. State of Origin Teams Announced After Weekend Games
We're closing in on Origin game 1, and every week feels like an audition. The talk around Dylan Edwards versus James Tedesco is real – and it’s deserved. Edwards is a workhorse, reliable as sunrise, while Teddy is pure instinct and explosion. Both elite players but both have very different styles. Don’t be surprised if Laurie makes a bold call this year and goes with Teddy on the back of his stellar form. The old loyalty card doesn’t hold the same weight when form is this red hot.
2. Magic Round Fallout
Magic Round at Suncorp always delivers, but this year felt like a genuine statement weekend. Packed stands, brutal matchups, and a couple of upsets that shifted the ladder. The Broncos looked more brittle than anyone expected, and Penrith… well, they reminded us they’re not going anywhere. Magic Round is quickly becoming one of the most important checkpoints of the season – both commercially and competitively.
3. Expansion Talk: The Bears Are Back!
The Bears are back. The PNG bid has serious political backing, but logistically, Perth just makes more sense. The time zone, the stadium, the market – it’s all ready. More teams mean more opportunities, but also more travel, more burnout, and more strain on the depth of the comp. As expansion happens, they better bring in the right support systems behind the scenes.
4. Injury Epidemic: Training Loads or Tough Luck?
ACLs, syndesmosis, hamstrings – you name it, it's happening weekly. There’s talk around the increased speed and intensity of the game not being matched by smarter training loads. The NRL and Clubs need to evolve or risk shortening careers across the board. There's no doubt that players think the NRL season is too long.
5. Young Guns Changing the Game
Young superstars are redefining what it means to be a player in the NRL. The speed, the confidence, the flair – it’s like watching street ball meet strategy. But they need the right mentors. I always say talent gets you there, but habits keep you there. The old heads in the game still have a massive role to play in shaping the next era and mentoring the young players from their experiences in the game.
6. The Media Circus vs. Club Culture
Let’s not lie – the media spotlight has never been brighter. TikTok clips, podcast drama, and 24-hour sports news cycles are making it harder for clubs to keep things in-house. But transparency isn’t always bad. Fans feel closer to the game than ever. The key? Teach players how to own their narrative, not fear it. Players need to spend time on their personal brand which can bring balance for them off the field as well as opportunities outside of sport for life after football.
Final Whistle
The NRL is in a golden era – fast-paced, media-rich, talent-loaded. The best thing about this years competition is that any team can beat anyone on any day. The competition is closer than ever and the usual top 4 teams are changing now.