The NRL’s heavyweights have fallen off a cliff. And only one is climbing back up

Several top NRL teams are facing significant challenges early in their 2026 campaigns, with a combination of factors contributing to their struggles. Set restart rules, a high number of player injuries, and overconfidence are reportedly impacting the performance of four previously favored clubs. These issues have led to a sharp decline in their on-field results, putting their championship aspirations in jeopardy.

While multiple contenders are grappling with these difficulties, one team appears to be making progress in overcoming their setbacks. The remaining clubs are now in a race against time to address their problems and salvage their season before it's too late.

This situation is significant because it highlights the unpredictable nature of the NRL season and the potential for even the strongest teams to falter, creating an open field for other contenders.