Las Vegas is set to host the opening rounds of the 2026 NRL Telstra Premiership, with team lists released this week sparking intense scrutiny from fantasy rugby league coaches. The season will kick off with matches at the Silver Bowl Park on February 26 and 27, featuring both NRL and Super League teams, according to the NRL website.
The release of team lists on Tuesday has been dubbed “Christmas Day” by NRL Fantasy players, as they finalize their squads ahead of the season’s start. Key selections and potential value picks are dominating discussion among coaches.
For the Newcastle Knights, the inclusion of Trey Mooney at prop has been a relief for fantasy coaches, despite earlier reports suggesting he might not feature in the starting lineup. Jermaine McEwen is listed as No.12, ahead of Thomas Cant, presenting a mid-range selection dilemma. A significant change sees Dylan Brown starting at halfback, partnering with Fletcher Sharpe, while Sandon Smith will provide utility cover from the interchange.
The North Queensland Cowboys have also provided positive news for fantasy coaches, with Tom Chester securing a centre role. His dual-position eligibility and affordable price tag make him a valuable selection. However, coaches should be aware that Zac Laybutt is eligible to return from suspension in Round 3, potentially challenging Chester for playing time. The Cowboys’ novel recruit, Reed Mahoney, is already a popular pick, with over 24% of teams including him, hoping he can replicate his strong Round 1 performance from 2023. Heilum Luki, priced at $300k, is emerging as a strong option for coaches seeking value in the edge forward position.
The Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs will see Bailey Hayward fill the Hooker position. Fantasy coaches are weighing his potential against his pre-season challenge scores, with his dual-position status making him a preferable utility option, especially given the Bulldogs’ Round 2 bye. Jacob Kiraz, playing his first game of the season on the wing, is already a mainstay in 16.8% of squads, but his Round 2 bye requires consideration for squad coverage. Halves Lachlan Galvin and Matt Burton are being watched closely as potential breakout stars.
For the St. George Illawarra Dragons, Toby Couchman’s retention of dual-position eligibility makes him an attractive fantasy option. Ryan Couchman has secured a bench spot, offering potential for emergency cover. Hamish Stewart has been named as the starting lock, and his strong debut season last year suggests he could be a valuable pick. Setu Tu, selected on the wing, is emerging as a cheap “cash cow” option for fantasy teams. However, David Fale, a popular pre-season pick, has been relegated to the interchange, requiring adjustments to many squads.
NRL Fantasy guru, the Lone Scout, will continue to provide updates and advice throughout the season, with a Q&A segment available for fan questions via email at thelonescout@nrl.com.au. Weekly updates will be published each Thursday.
