NRL Round 1 2025 predicted teams: Murray, Mitchell injuries rock Rabbitohs

South Sydney have lost Cameron Murray to a long-term injury while Latrell Mitchell requires scans on his hamstring. See every predicted round one line-up.

NRL round 1 is just around the corner and here are our predicted teams for the opening round.

We’ll constantly update this page throughout the pre-season based on injuries, trial form and players “training the house down” – so keep coming back for the latest.

Scroll down for every round one predicted team.

In latest news:

DOUBLE BLOW ROCKS BUNNIES

South Sydney’s NRL season is in disarray after champion players Latrell Mitchell and Cam Murray sustained injuries at a chaotic training session this morning.

Murray has a suspected Achilles injury and is undergoing immediate scans.

In a crushing blow, Murray, the Rabbitohs skipper, could miss the entire season although former Test fullback Darius Boyd returned from an Achilles injury after just five months.

Murray wasn’t in contact when the injury occurred.

Mitchell sustained a hamstring injury but walked from the training field at Heffron Park.

He was immediately ruled out of the club’s Charity Shield game against St George Illawarra this weekend in Mudgee.

More here

BULLDOGS TURN TO ROOKIES WITH KIRAZ, TUALA OUT

Canterbury star Jacob Kiraz has been rubbed out of the season opener against St George Illawarra after worrying revelations the star outside back has not trained all pre-season.

It comes as new recruit Enari Tuala also suffered a broken foot at training in a major pre-season setback.

Bulldogs general manager Phil Gould confirmed that Kiraz won’t be available for the Bulldogs’ round 1 clash on March 8 due to a back issue, with no set return date.

Kiraz withdrew from Mal Meninga’s preliminary Australian squad for the Pacific Championships last year with a back injury.

The 23-year old struggled through back issues in 2023, only for scans to later reveal the outside back had been playing through a lumbar spine fracture.

Enari Tuala 10 weeks … Jacob Kiraz ??? We don’t really know … It’s up to Jacob really … It’s a pain tolerance situation … https://t.co/XA1kzGS0D6

— Phil Gould (@PhilGould15) February 17, 2025

Bulldogs indicate Jacob Kiraz will miss at least Round 1 & potentially longer due to a back injury.

Described as a “pain management issue” - which is surprising considering he has carried it for at least 5 months + had back stress fractures in late 2024. Worrying signs. pic.twitter.com/Y82WA9E10j

— NRL PHYSIO (@nrlphysio) February 17, 2025

”Jacob Kiraz hasn’t trained all summer and won’t see the start of the season and then last week our new buy from Newcastle (Tuala), who was training really well, fractured his foot at training, so he’s unavailable,” Gould said on the Six Tackles podcast.

While Tuala is set to miss up to 10 weeks, Gould said Kiraz’s return date remains unclear describing the injury as a “pain tolerance” issue.

“Enari Tuala 10 weeks … Jacob Kiraz ??? We don’t really know … It’s up to Jacob really … It’s a pain tolerance situation,” Gould said on X, formerly Twitter.

Young Bulldogs flyer Ratu Rinakama impressed in the trial win over the Wests Tigers.

After the exits of Josh Addo Carr, Jeral Skelton and Joash Papalii last season, coach Cameron Ciraldo’s outside back stocks will be tested with battle to replace Kiraz on the wing will likely be determined in Canterbury’s final trial against Brisbane on Saturday February 22.

Blake Wilson is the man most likely to fill in for Kiraz after he was named to start in the trial though boom rookies Jonathan Sua, who debuted in round 27 last year, and Ratu Jethro Rinakama who starred in the Bulldogs’ trial win over the Wests Tigers are also in the selection mix. .

“He’s (Rinakama) a great kid, very smart kid too, doing engineering. He’s SG Ball age, he played SG Ball last year as a first year ... he then went and played in the Jersey Flegg finals series… with Jonathan Sua, who debuted one game last year… they’re players of the future,” Gould said.

Sua impressed with a 187 metre performance, which included a try and two line breaks against the Tigers, while Rinakama crossed the line twice to finish with 167 metres, three line breaks and five tackle busts. Blake Wilson is another option.

BRONCOS GIANT SHOOTS INTO ROUND ONE CONTENTION

Giant Brisbane prop Ben Te Kura has spent the off-season adding a big motor to his even bigger frame, putting rivals on notice as he eyes off a spot in the Broncos’ Round 1 team.

The tallest man in NRL history at 205cm, Te Kura has put in two eye-catching pre-season performances for the Broncos as he looks to finally fulfil his massive potential.

Te Kura burst onto the scene last year, scoring a try on debut in Brisbane’s Round 5 loss to Melbourne.

Ben Te Kura is firmly in the mix for a round one appearance for the Broncos. Picture: NRL Photos

But a serious foot injury limited him to just three NRL appearances as the Broncos’ season unravelled.

However, the 20-year-old could hardly have been more impressive in his first two pre-season hit-outs.

He was a monster force in the Broncos’ 22-0 win over Burleigh, and followed it up with another star showing in Sunday’s 50-12 thrashing of the Gold Coast in Toowoomba.

Te Kura scored a second-half try against the Titans, had 11 runs for 90m, including five tackle busts, an offload and a linebreak.

Standing in the way of Te Kura earning a spot in Maguire’s 17-man squad for their season opener against the Sydney Roosters opener at Allianz Stadium on March 6 is veteran forward Marty Taupau.

Martin Taupau is the man standing in the way of Ben Te Kura earning a spot in the team. Picture: Adam Head

Teammate Billy Walters revealed that Te Kura has spent the pre-season getting himself in peak fitness and told fans what they could expect from him this season.

“A lot more game minutes,” Walters said.

“He’s worked on his fitness pretty hard and, I suppose, that was the only thing holding him back.”

-Peter Badel, Adam Mobbs

FRONT RUNNER IN BATTLE OF MCLEAN BROTHERS

The battle of the McLean brothers is going down to the wire after Penrith coach Ivan Cleary revealed his team for the season opener against Cronulla in Las Vegas was far from “settled”.

Casey McLean, 18, was believed to be the front runner to replace the departed Sunia Turuva (Tigers) on the left wing alongside centre Paul Alamoti in 2025.

But Cleary hinted Jesse McLean, 20, had outgunned his younger brother in Saturday night’s 22-16 week one trial loss to Canberra after they started on opposite wings.

“I thought Jess was really good. I thought Casey was all right,” Cleary said.

Jesse McLean and Casey McLean are gunning for the same Penrith wing spot.

“There are plenty of guys putting their hand up for different spots. We are not settled on everything yet.

Halfback Nathan Cleary has returned to full contact training after surgery for a shoulder injury he carried during the finals series.

Newcomer Blaize Talagi also had a shoulder clean out, while hard-nosed backrower Liam Martin also managed a shoulder injury during the pre-season.

“They are going well. Every one of our shoulder guys has gone off without incident, so they are all a chance,” Cleary said.

Cleary also gave little away when asked about who would be replacing Jarome Luai in the No. 6 jumper.

“Who knows?” Cleary said.

Former Eels rookie Talagi is viewed as the favourite to start at five-eighth alongside Cleary but the coach also has options in Jack Cole, Brad Schneider and Trent Toelau – who all took the field at Sharks Stadium.

There are growing suggestions Papali’i could usurp Scott Sorensen for a starting edge spot.

“From a condition point of view, it (was) good for him as well. He played 50 minutes straight, I thought he was good,” Cleary said.

RECENT TEAMS NEWS

- Cam Murray’s season may be over before it begins after the South Sydney captain injured his Achilles at training while Latrell Mitchell will, at a minimum, miss the Chairt Shield after injuring his hamstring.

- The Bulldogs have suffered an injury blow, with winger Enari Tuala to be sidelined for up to 10 weeks, while Jacob Kiraz has been ruled out of Round 1, but could miss more games with an uncertain return date.

- Penrith trio Blaize Talagi, Dylan Edwards and Liam Martin are all firming to play Round 1 in Las Vegas after getting through an in-house opposed session across the weekend. Nathan Cleary’s post-surgery shoulder survived an in-house scrimmage.

– Manly forward Taniela Paseka will be rested for Manly’s final trial on Friday night against Penrith, but will be available to take on North Queensland in the Sea Eagles’ season opener after being cleared of a serious AC joint injury.

– Dallin Watene-Zelezniak is racing the clock for the Warriors season opener in Las Vegas after having surgery on a broken wrist.

– Storm forward Christian Welch has been forced into retirement due to concussion and a debilitating back injury

– Some interesting team news out of the scrimmage between Manly and the Dragons, with Jazz Tevaga starting at hooker for the Sea Eagles, while Lehi Hopoate impressed on the wing.

– Viliami Vailea looks to have won the battle for right centre in North Queensland, while also hinting the right wing position left vacant by Kyle Feldt is shaping up as a two-horse race between Rob Derby and Braidon Burns.

– Plenty of news at Souths. Cody Walker (calf) is in doubt for round one. Cameron Murray (wrist) is almost a month ahead of schedule and confirmed to start the season. Winger Campbell Graham (hand) is also firming for round one, while Latrell Mitchell is available after the NRL deemed he can include the All Stars fixture towards a one-game suspension.

– Jack Gosiewski has emerged as a surprise round one bolter for the Broncos, which could see Brendan Piakura lose his starting spot.

– Shaun Lane is in doubt for the opening round of Parramatta’s season after undergoing a knee operation.

– Star Tigers recruit Jarome Luai picked up a pre-season leg injury but is expected to play round one at this stage.

– Albert Hopoate will miss the opening round due to the birth of his child. Savelio Tamale is favoured to take his wing spot, although coach Ricky Stuart’s son Jed is also in the running.

– Broncos prop Payne Haas is racing the clock to be fit for round one, after undergoing surgery on his ankle following an injury at training.

– Tohu Harris has retired immediately due to a wrist injury, opening big minutes at the Warriors.

Ezra Mam is set to be suspended for the first nine weeks of the 2025 season. Picture: NRL Imagery

BRONCOS

1. Reece Walsh 2. Selwyn Cobbo 3. Kotoni Staggs 4. Deine Mariner 5. Jesse Arthars 6. Ben Hunt 7. Adam Reynolds 8. Payne Haas 9. Billy Walters 10. Corey Jensen 11. Brendan Piakura 12. Jordan Riki 13. Patrick Carrigan 14. Cory Paix 15. Kobe Hetherington 16. Fletcher Baker 17. Xavier Willison

Analysis: Broncos five-eighth Ezra Mam will be unavailable for the opening nine weeks of the season, after being suspended and fined $120,000 for drug driving offences. However they have a locked in replacement in new arrival Ben Hunt.

The former Dragon will likely slot straight into five-eighth alongside halfback and skipper Adam Reynolds to start the year.

Meanwhile, the Broncos were seriously considering handing the No.9 jersey to Blake Mozer, however an injury to the young gun should see Billy Walters start in the hooker role, with the likes of Tyson Smoothy and Cory Paix battling for a bench utility role.

Where the Broncos team will get really interesting however, is what the spine will look when Mam is available, with Hunt a good chance to shift to hooker and push Mozer back to the bench.

In other team news, Michael Maguire is considering moving Selwyn Cobbo back to the wing, which could see Deine Mariner come in at centre, with Jesse Arthars, Delouise Hoeter and Josiah Karapani and rookie Israel Leota also in contention.

There are suggestions Maguire could shift Pat Carrigan to prop to allow Kobe Hetherington to start at lock, which would see Corey Jensen move back to the bench, however this seems unlikely.

Maguire has also hinted Hetherington could be shifted to an edge in 2025 in a bid to give him more game time, but expect Brendan Piakura and Jordan Riki to hold onto the starting backrow spots.

There is also some mail that unheralded forward Jack Gosiewski could start in the backrow for Round 1, with Piakura or Riki in danger of being benched.

BULLDOGS

1. Connor Tracey 2. Blake Wilson 3. Bronson Xerri 4. Stephen Crichton 5. Marcelo Montoya 6. Matt Burton 7. Toby Sexton 8. Max King 9. Reed Mahoney 10. Samuel Hughes 11. Viliame Kikau 12. Jacob Preston 13. Kurt Mann 14. Jaeman Salmon 15. Sitili Tupouniua 16. Tom Amone 17. Josh Curran

There is a wing spot up for grabs after Josh Addo-Carr was sacked by the Bulldogs. Picture: Getty Images

Analysis: There are two wing spot up for grabs after Josh Addo-Carr was sacked by the Bulldogs and Jacob Kiraz carrying an injury. New recruit Marcelo Montoya will likely fill one spot, the other might have been filled by Enari Tuala but his injury opens the door for a youngster to grab his chance. Blake Wilson is the man most likely to fill in, buteither Jonathan Sua or Ratu Jethro Rinakama could also come into contention.

The Bulldogs are desperate for front-rowers, so new recruit Tom Amone will likely feature in the 17, while new recruit Zyon Maiu’u could also feature in the squad. They are however stacked for backrowers, with Sitili Tupouniua pushing for a starting spot.

DOLPHINS

1. Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow 2. Jamayne Isaako 3. Jake Averillo 4. Herbie Farnworth 5. Jack Bostock 6. Kodi Nikorima 7. Isaiya Katoa 8. Daniel Saifiti 9. Jeremy Marshall-King 10. Felise Kaufusi 11. Kulikefu Finefeuiaki 12. Tom Gilbert 13. Max Plath 14. Ray Stone 15.

Mark Nicholls 16. Connelly Lemuelu 17. Kenny Bromwich

Thomas Flegler is still facing an uncertain future in the NRL. Picture: NRL Imagery

Analysis: Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow finished 2024 in the centres but will be back at fullback after Trai Fuller suffered an ACL injury, while Jake Averillo will likely shift back to the centres after a cameo at five-eighth.

New recruit Daniel Saifiti will likely start in the front row, while there are still question marks over the availability of Tom Flegler.

Tom Gilbert will look to return from an ACL injury in the backrow, with Max Plath set to hold onto the No. 13 jersey after a stellar season.

Former Cowboy Kulikefu Finefeuiaki should earn at least a bench spot, while Connelly Lemuelu will be racing the clock for Round 1 as he recovers from a shoulder reconstruction.

EELS

1. Isaiah Iongi 2. Sean Russell 3. Viliami Penisini 4. Zac Lomax 5. Bailey Simonsson/Jake Tago 6. Dylan Brown 7. Mitchell Moses 8. Joe Ofahengaue 9. Brendan Hands 10. Junior Paulo 11. Shaun Lane 12. Kelma Tuilagi 13. J’maine Hopgood 14. Joey Lussick 15. Bryce Cartwright 16. Wiremu Greig 17. Ryan Matterson

The Eels fullback spot is up for grabs after Clint Gutherson signed with the Dragons. Picture: Getty Images

Analysis: Shaun Lane is in doubt for the opening round of Parramatta’s season after undergoing a knee operation. New recruit Jack Williams, Bryce Cartwright, Kelma Tuilagi, Kitione Kautoga and Charlie Guymer will all be considered as backrow options should Lane be ruled out.

Expect recruit Isaiah Iongi to start at fullback in place of Clint Gutherson (Dragons), while Zac Lomax slots into the centres.

Maika Sivo has gone to the Super League, which will likely see Sean Russell and Bailey Simonsson start the season on the wings, with Josh Addo-Carr set to miss the opening 2 games.

The departure of Reagan Campbell-Gillard could see Joe Ofahengaue start at prop, while the likes of Wiremu Greig, Charlie Guymer, Luca Moretti or Sam Tuivaiti could see more minutes.

J’maine Hopgood is in some doubt as he recovers from surgery, but is expected to be good to go for round one, while new recruits Jack Williams and Joash Papalii could also push for bench spots.

RAIDERS

1. Kaeo Weekes 2. Savelio Tamale 3. Matthew Timoko 4. Sebastian Kris 5. Xavier Savage 6. Ethan Strange 7. Jamal Fogarty 8. Josh Papali’i 9. Tom Starling 10. Joseph Tapine 11. Hudson Young 12. Zac Hosking 13. Morgan Smithies 14. Danny Levi 15. Corey Horsburgh 16. Ata Mariota 17. Matty Nicholson

Kaeo Weekes is expected to remain at fullback in 2025. Picture: NRL Imagery

Analysis: Ethan Strange will likely start the year at five-eighth but could be under pressure from Ethan Sanders.

Albert Hopoate will miss the Raider’s Round One trip to loss Vegas due to the birth of his first child, with Savelio Tamale expected to start on the wing, while Jed Stuart and Michael Asomua are other options.

Zac Hosking was front runner to fill the edge spot of departed Elliott Whitehead, but he’s in some doubt for round one due to a calf injury. Matty Nicholson comes to the nation’s capital with some big raps and could force his way into the starting pack if Hosking is ruled out.

SHARKS

1. Will Kennedy 2. Sione Katoa 3. Jesse Ramien 4. Kayal Iro 5. Ronaldo Mulitalo 6. Nicho Hynes 7. Braydon Trindall 8. Addin Fonua-Blake 9. Blayke Brailey 10 Oregon Kaufusi 11. Briton Nikora 12. Teig Wilton 13. Cameron McInnes 14. Daniel Atkinson 15. Siosifa Talakai 16. Braden Hamlin-Uele 17. Thomas Hazelton

New recruit Addin Fonua- Blake will start for the Sharks in 2025. Picture: NRL Imagery

Analysis: Braydon Trindall is set to take over at halfback, with Nicho Hynes shifting to five-eighth, while new recruit Addin Fonua-Blake slots into the starting front-row. Toby Rudolf is set to miss the opening rounds with a shoulder injury, but otherwise a fairly settled line-up.

TITANS

1. Keano Kini 2. Alofiana Khan-Pereira 3. Brian Kelly 4. Phillip Sami 5. Jojo Fifita 6. AJ Brimson 7. Jayden Campbell 8. Moeaki Fotuaika 9. Sam Verrills 10. Reagan Campbell-Gillard 11. David Fifita 12. Beau Fermor 13. Tino Fa’asuamaleaui 14. Kieran Foran 15. Jaimin Jolliffe 16. Josiah Pahulu 17. Chris Randall

How does AJ Brimson fit into the Titans team in 2025? Picture: NRL Imagery

Analysis: While coming up with a predicted round one side for the team that has the round one bye is a bit redundant, let’s take a look at how we expect them to line up to start their season in round two anyway.

The big question mark for the Titans is whether they stick with revelation Keano Kini at fullback, and if they do, where AJ Brimson fits into the team. Making matters more confusing are suggestions Hasler could actually shift Kieran Foran to the bench and run with a halves combination of Brimson and Jayden Campbell.

The 2025 pack will gain some significant size compared to 2024 with new recruit Reagan Campbell-Gillard slotting straight in at prop, while Tino Fa’asuamaleaui (who missed all of the 2024 season due to an ACL injury) likely returns to start at lock. RCG did pick up a shoulder injury at training and is set to miss the trial matches, but should be good to go for Round 2.

Rugby convert Carter Gordon is struggling with a back injury but could also feature in the starting backline, putting pressure on centres Brian Kelly and Phillip Sami.

Josiah Pahulu has requested a release from the club, and if granted, his departure would likely free up a bench spot.

SEA EAGLES

1. Tom Trbojevic 2. Jason Saab 3. Tommy Talau 4. Reuben Garrick 5. Lehi Hopoate 6. Luke Brooks 7. Daly Cherry-Evans 8. Taniela Paseka 9. Jazz Tevaga 10. Josh Aloiai 11. Haumole Olakau’atu 12. Ben Trbojevic 13. Jake Trbojevic 14. Jake Simpkin 15. Nathan Brown 16. Sio Siua Taukeiaho 17. Ethan Bullemor

Despite a breakout 2024 season, Lehi Hopoate could miss out on a starting spot to start 2025. Picture: Getty Images

Analysis: Taniela Paseka will play round one after being cleared of a serious shoulder injury sustained in the trials.

Lachlan Croker is set to miss the first three rounds after knee surgery.

Expect recruit Jazz Tevaga to start at hooker, with Jake Simpkin or Gordon Chan Kum Tong providing cover from the interchange.

Recruit Sio Siua Taukeiaho could earn a bench spot over Toafofa Sipley. Lehi Hopoate was a revelation in 2024 and will likely feature in the 17 somewhere, but whether he starts in the backline or gets a bench spot remains to be seen.

He could easily start on a wing, with Tommy Talau starting at centre and Tolutau Koula on the bench. Former Sea Eagle Michael Chee-Kam returns to Manly and could be in contention for a bench spot if they opt to not go with Hopoate or Koula.

STORM

1. Ryan Papenhuyzen 2. Will Warbrick 3. Jack Howarth 4. Nick Meaney 5. Xavier Coates 6. Cameron Munster 7. Jahrome Hughes 8. Stefano Utoikamanu 9. Harry Grant 10. Josh King 11. Shawn Blore 12. Eliesa Katoa 13. Trent Loiero 14. Tyran Wishart 15. Alec MacDonald 16. Lazarus Vaalepu 17. Tui Kamikamica

Nelson Asofa-Solomona will miss the start of 2025 through suspension. Picture: NRL Imagery

Analysis: With big Nelson Asofa-Solomona suspended, new recruit Stefano Utoikamanu slots right in at front row alongside Josh King. The forced retirement of Christian Welch will free up a spot on the bench, Joe Chan or Lazarus Vaalepu the most likely replacements.

Otherwise the team is almost unchanged from the side that went down in the 2024 grand final.

KNIGHTS

1. Kalyn Ponga 2. James Schiller 3. Dane Gagai 4. Bradman Best 5. Greg Marzhew 6. Fletcher Sharpe 7. Jack Cogger 8. Jacob Saifiti 9. Phoenix Crossland 10. Leo Thompson 11. Dylan Lucas 12. Kai Pearce-Paul 13. Tyson Frizell 14. Tyson Gamble/Jayden Brailey 15. Mathew Croker 16. Jack Hetherington 17. Adam Elliott

Who will start in the halves for Newcastle in 2025? Picture: Getty Images

Analysis: The biggest question for Newcastle is who will wear the number 6 and 7 jumpers.

Jack Cogger and Phoenix Crossland are the incumbents, after Jackson Hastings and Tyson Gamble fell out of favour towards the end of the season.

While Fletcher Sharpe has made a surprise switch to five eighth and is set to start the season there for Newcastle. If that were the case, a wing spot would become available, with James Schiller the most likely replacement.

Jacob Saifiti will likely start in the front row, after his twin brother Daniel signed with the Dolphins, while rising prop Cody Hopwood could force his way into the 17, particularly given Leo Thompson is set to depart at the end of 2025.

The make-up of the bench is unsettled, with one of the halves who misses out a chance of a bench utility role. Kai Pearce-Paul could easily force his way into the starting side over Frizell, while Tyrone Thompson, the twin brother of Leo could also become feature on the bench over Jack Hetherington. Brodie Jones and Thomas Cant also impressed in the back-end of 2024 and could feature somewhere in the 17.

COWBOYS

1. Scott Drinkwater 2. Braidon Burns 3. Jaxson Purdue 4. Viliami Vailea 5. Murray Taulagi 6. Tom Dearden 7. Jake Clifford 8. Griffin Neame 9. Reece Robson 10. Jordan McLean 11. John Bateman 12. Jeremiah Nanai 13. Reuben Cotter 14. Karl Lawton 15. Sam McIntyre 16. Harrison Edwards 17. Coen Hess

Coen Hess will be pushing for a return from an ACL injury. Picture: NRL Imagery

Analysis: With Valentine Holmes and Kyle Feldt gone there are backline spots up for grabs, with Viliami Vailea likely locking up one centre spot. Braidon Burns is firming to replace Feldt, but is in a battle with Robert Derby and Semi Valemei, while Zac Laybutt (ACL) and Jaxson Purdue are fighting over the other centre position.

Jake Clifford is likely to continue as halfback after impressing in the back-end of 2024, however he has suffered a minor setback after having surgery that will sideline him for 2 weeks of the pre-season, during which time Tom Duffy and Purdue will press their claim for the No.7 jersey.

Coen Hess (ACL) could start in the front row in his return from injury alongside Jordan McLean, with Jason Taumalolo set to miss the opening month of the competition as he recovers from surgery to repair a Lisfranc injury. Heilum Luki’s ACL injury means new signing John Bateman starts on an edge and Reuben Cotter likely stays at lock.

PANTHERS

1. Dylan Edwards 2. Casey McLean 3. Izack Tago 4. Paul Alamoti 5. Brian To’o 6. Blaize Talagi 7. Nathan Cleary 8. Moses Leota 9. Mitch Kenny 10. Lindsay Smith 11. Isaiah Papali’i 12. Liam Martin 13. Isaah Yeo 14. Jack Cole 15. Scott Sorensen 16. Liam Henry 17. Luke Garner

Will Blaize Talagi replace Jarome Luai in 2025? Picture: NRL Imagery

Analysis: The Panthers may have lost Jarome Luai and Sunia Turuva, but they are spoiled for options to replace them. Blaize Talagi was expected to get first crack at five-eighth, but the former Eel suffered a shoulder injury playing for Samoa that has him racing the clock for the Las Vegas season opener against Cronulla. Ivan Cleary could opt for the likes of Brad Schneider or Jack Cole at five-eighth if Talagi is unavailable.

Nathan Cleary also underwent off-season shoulder surgery, but is expected to be fit for round 1. Dylan Edwards ALSO underwent shoulder surgery which has him in some doubt for Round 1, with Daine Laurie the likely replacement if he’s unavailable.

Expect either Casey or Jesse McLean to replace Turuva on the wing. New recruit Isaiah Papali’i will likely start on an edge but could feature heavily in the middle after the loss of James Fisher-Harris.

RABBITOHS

1. Latrell Mitchell 2. Isaiah Tass 3. Campbell Graham 4. Jack Wighton 5. Tyrone Munro 6. Cody Walker 7. Lewis Dodd 8. Tevita Tatola 9. Peter Mamouzelos 10. Davvy Moale 11. Tallis Duncan 12. Jai Arrow 13. Keaon Koloamatangi 14. Jamie Humphreys 15. Siliva Havili 16. Shaquai Mitchell 17. Sean Keppie

Latrell Mitchell is in doubt for Round 1. Picture: NRL Photos

Analysis: Cameron Murray has injured his Achilles and may not play at all in 2025. Latrell Mitchell tweaked his hamstring at training and will miss the Charity Shield and is in some doubt for round one. Cody Walker (calf) is in doubt for round one, if he is unavailable expect either Jamie Humphreys, Jayden Sullivan or Josh Schuster to come in at five-eighth. Centre Campbell Graham (hand) is also firming for round one, while Latrell Mitchell is available after the NRL deemed he can include the All Stars fixture towards a one-game suspension.

If Graham is unavailable, Isaiah Tass could move to the centres, with Fletcher Myles coming onto the wing, with Alex Johnston racing the clock to be back from an Achilles injury.

Recruit Lewis Dodd is expected to start the year at halfback.

Peter Mamouzelos should start at hooker after the departure of Damien Cook, but Humphreys or Siliva Havili are other options, with one of them who misses out likely to earn a bench spot.

Tevita Tatola and Jai Arrow are both in some doubt as they make their way back from injury, while Euan Aitken is expected to miss the opening month with a pectoral injury.

ROOSTERS

1. James Tedesco 2. Dominic Young 3. Mark Nawaqanitawase 4. Robert Toia 5. Daniel Tupou 6. Sandon Smith 7. Chad Townsend 8. Spencer Leniu 9. Connor Watson 10. Lindsay Collins 11. Angus Crichton 12. Victor Radley 13. Siua Wong 14. Naufahu Whyte 15. Nat Butcher 16. Egan Butcher 17. De La Salle Va’a

Chad Townsend is set to start for the Roosters in 2025. Picture: Getty Images

Analysis: With Luke Keary gone and Sam Walker rehabilitating an ACL injury, veteran Chad Townsend is poised to start the year at halfback, while there is a cloud hanging over Sandon Smith after he was charged with negligent driving in October. Billy Smith and Mark Nawaqanitawase will likely replace Joseph Manu and Joseph Suaali’i in the centres, but Robert Toia is also in the running for a starting spot.

Spencer Leniu will likely replace Jared Waerea-Hargreaves in the starting front-row. Terrell May is off to the Wests Tigers after being released by the club. His departure will free up a spot on the bench, which could be filled by rising prop De La Salle Va’a.

DRAGONS

1. Clint Gutherson 2. Sione Finau 3. Moses Suli 4. Valentine Holmes 5. Christian Tuipulotu 6. Kyle Flanagan 7. Lachlan Ilias 8. Toby Couchman 9. Damien Cook 10. Emre Guler 11. Luciano Leilua 12. Jaydn Su’A 13. Jack de Belin 14. Jacob Liddle 15. Hame Sele 16. Raymond Faitala-Mariner 17. Tom Eisenhuth

Tyrell Sloan could move to the wing or miss out in round one, after the Dragons signed Clint Gutherson. Picture: Getty Images

Analysis: Francis Molo has likely played his last game for the club, leaving the Dragons short on middles. Hame Sele may come into the starting prop role provided he’s recovered from a heart scare.

Blake Lawrie, new recruit Emre Guler or one of the Couchman brothers could come onto the bench, while Viliame Fifita is also an option.

Teenage prop sensation Loko Jnr Pasifiki Tonga has also been earmarked as a potential round one bolter. It seems it is just a matter of when Tonga, who played under-19s NSW this season, will make his first grade debut, and is expected to get a crack in the team during trials.

The departure of Ben Hunt means the No.7 jersey is up for grabs, with new recruit Lachlan Ilias the favourite to take over. The only real other option is to move Kyle Flanagan to halfback, and go with Lyhkan King-Togia at five-eighth.

The Dragons have landed Clint Gutherson from Parramatta, and he is the favourite to wear the No.1 jersey in 2025, which could see Tyrell Sloan playing on a wing or out of the top-17.

Expect either Christian Tuipolotu or Mat Feagai or Sione Finau to replace Zac Lomax (Eels) on the other wing, while new recruit Valentine Holmes starts in the centres.

Despite a very impressive 2024 season, Jacob Liddle will likely shift to the interchange with new recruit Damien Cook the new starting hooker and co-captain.

WARRIORS

1. Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad 2. Dallin Watene-Zelezniak 3. Rocco Berry 4. Adam Pompey 5.

Roger Tuivasa-Sheck 6. Te Maire Martin 7. Luke Metcalf 8. James Fisher-Harris 9. Wayde Egan 10. Mitchell Barnett 11. Marata Niukore 12. Kurt Capewell 13. Erin Clark 14. Dylan Walker 15. Jackson Ford 16. Tom Ale 17. Demitric Vaimauga

James Fisher-Harris will replace Addin Fonua- Blake in 2025. Picture: Getty Images

Analysis: The Warriors have been dealt a pre-season blow with inspirational skipper Tohu Harris retiring immediately as he battles a chronic wrist injury. His departure will likely see Erin Clark or Dylan Walker move into the lock position, with the other set to get a spot on the bench. Young bolter Demitric Vaimauga impressed in the Warriors first pre-season trial match and could also be a winner from Harris’ retirement.

There is a wing spot up for grabs after the departure of Marcelo Montoya, with Roger Tuivasa-Scheck set to move to the wing, with Rocco Berry, Adam Pompey and Ali Leiataua battling it out to start in the centres, however Berry is reportedly still struggling with a shoulder injury and could be in some doubt.

The other wing spot may also be up for grabs, with Dallin Watene-Zelezniak racing the clock to be fit for round one after having surgery on a broken wrist. If ruled out expect Taine Tuaupiki or Edward Kosi to start.

The retirement of Shaun Johnson will see changes in the spine. Luke Metcalf and Te Maire Martin will likely start in the halves, with Tanah Boyd, Chanel Harris-Tavita, and even possibly Jett Cleary the other options.

James Fisher-Harris replaces Addin Fonua-Blake in the front-row.

WESTS TIGERS

1. Jahream Bula 2. Jeral Skelton 3. Justin Olam 4. Adam Doueihi 5. Sunia Turuva 6. Lachlan Galvin 7. Jarome Luai 8. David Klemmer 9. Tallyn Da Silva 10. Terrell May 11. Samuela Fainu12. Alex Seyfarth 13. Jack Bird 14. Latu Fainu 15. Fonua Pole 16. Royce Hunt 17. Alex Twal

Jarome Luai will start at halfback for the Tigers in 2025. Picture: Getty Images

Analysis: Co-captain Jarome Luai picked up a pre-season leg injury but is expected to play round one.

The Wests Tigers are set to be without skipper Api Koroisau for Round One, after copping a three-game ban in Round 27 last year, and serving two of those weeks after missing out on representing Fiji in the Pacifc Bowl. This will likely see Tallyn Da Silva start the year in the No.9 jersey.

The Wests Tigers have secured the signature of Roosters front rower Terrell May, which should see him start in their front row, likely pushing either Royce Hunt or David Klemmer to the bench.

New recruits Sunia Turuva and Jeral Skelton could start on the wings, with Charlie Staines and Brent Naden other options. The centre pairings were very unsettled in 2024, but expect Olam and Doueihi to start there in 2025, while Solomona Faataape is another option.

Jarome Luai should slot straight in at halfback alongside Galvin at five-eighth.

The back row is a bit up in the air, with Isaiah Papali’i (Panthers) and John Bateman (Cowboys) gone. Samuela Fainu will start on one edge, with new recruit Jack Bird revealing he is set to start in the No.13 jersey. This means an edge spot is up for grabs, with Reuben Porter, Justin Matamua and Alex Seyfarth among the contenders.

Originally published as NRL Round 1 2025 predicted teams: Murray, Mitchell injuries rock Rabbitohs