The NRL’s Next Wave: Uncovering the Hidden Gems Set to Shake Up 2026
Every year, the NSW and QLD Cup competitions serve as fertile ground for uncovering the next generation of NRL superstars. But here’s where it gets exciting: while some names are already buzzing in the rugby league world, others remain hidden gems, waiting for their moment to shine. And this is the part most people miss—the stories of resilience, potential, and the sheer talent bubbling just beneath the surface. Let’s dive into the players who could redefine the NRL landscape in 2026.
Coby Black: The Broncos’ Heir Apparent
Adam Reynolds and Ben Hunt may have just delivered a premiership to Brisbane, but the future at Red Hill is equally promising, thanks to Coby Black. This 19-year-old halfback is no stranger to pressure, having starred for Souths Logan with six tries and nine goals in 16 games. Already a standout in Queensland’s junior ranks, Black is being groomed as the long-term successor to Reynolds and Hunt, who are likely to retire by 2026. But here’s the controversial part: should the Broncos fast-track his debut next season, or play it safe and let him develop further? It’s a question that divides fans and experts alike.
Blake Mozer: The Broncos’ Next Hooker?
Mozer is another Brisbane talent making waves. After battling injuries, he scored three tries in 12 games for Souths Logan in the 2025 QLD Cup. With nine NRL games under his belt, Mozer is caught in a numbers game behind Hunt, Cory Paix, and Billy Walters. The club is considering loaning him out in 2026 to accelerate his development. But is this the right move for a player touted as the Broncos’ next long-term hooker? Or should they keep him close to ensure a smooth transition post-Hunt?
Latrell Siegwalt: The Late Bloomer Ready to Explode
At 24, Siegwalt is a late bloomer, but his 2025 QLD Cup campaign suggests he’s ready for the big stage. As the competition’s top point-scorer, he recorded eight tries and 75 goals for Souths Logan. Signed by South Sydney for 2026, Siegwalt’s versatility—covering the back three and five-eighth—makes him a utility player to watch. But can he make an immediate impact in the NRL, or will he need time to adjust to the top tier?
Dudley Dotoi: The Try-Scoring Machine
With 26 tries in 22 games for the Townsville Blackhawks, Dotoi was the QLD Cup’s leading try-scorer in 2025. The Papua New Guinea native has scored 37 tries in 36 games over two seasons, yet he remains under the radar. While he’s an ideal fit for the PNG Chiefs expansion side, don’t be surprised if an NRL team snaps him up sooner. But here’s the question: is the NRL ready for a player like Dotoi, or will he be overlooked in favor of more established names?
Oliver Pascoe: The Hooker with a Point to Prove
Pascoe’s 2025 campaign with the Ipswich Jets was nothing short of remarkable. As the Queensland Cup Player of the Year, he averaged 94 metres per game and scored 15 tries. Now trialing with the Gold Coast Titans, Pascoe is knocking on the NRL door. But with Sam Verrills firmly in place as the Titans’ first-choice hooker, can Pascoe force his way into the lineup? And if not, where does he go from here?
Cody Ramsey: The Comeback Kid
Ramsey’s story is one of resilience. After a debilitating illness threatened his career, he returned with a bang in 2025, scoring 11 tries in 24 games for the Dragons’ reserve grade side. Signed by the Sydney Roosters for 2026, Ramsey’s ability to play wing and fullback makes him a versatile asset. But can he reclaim his spot in the NRL, or will his comeback fall short?
Tom Rodwell: The Next Roosters Winger?
The son of a rugby league great, Rodwell scored 20 tries in 22 games for the Roosters’ NSW Cup side. With Mark Nawaqanitawase and Daniel Tupou’s futures uncertain, Rodwell could be the answer to the Roosters’ wing conundrum. But is he ready for the step up, or will the pressure of replacing legends prove too much?
Jonah Glover: The Playmaker with a Point to Prove
Glover’s 226-point haul in 2025 was nothing short of spectacular. After leading the Dragons’ NSW Cup side to the grand final, he’s signed with the Rabbitohs for 2026. Under Wayne Bennett and Cody Walker’s guidance, Glover could reach new heights. But will he get the chance to prove himself in first grade, or will he remain on the fringes?
Niwhai Puru: The Sharks’ Hidden Gem
Puru’s 12 tries and 78 goals for the Newtown Jets in 2025 marked him as one of the NSW Cup’s top talents. Stuck behind Nicho Hynes and Braydon Trindall, Puru is on the cusp of an NRL debut. But with the Sharks’ halves already established, where does he fit in?
Trey Mooney: The Enforcer Ready to Break Through
Mooney dominated the NSW Cup in 2025, scoring six tries in 17 games for Canberra. Signed by the Knights for 2026, he’s poised to replace Leo Thompson in their front row rotation. But can he make the most of this opportunity, or will he remain a reserve grade standout?
Noah Martin: The Raiders’ Future
At just 20, Martin is already a force to be reckoned with. His 15 tries in 19 games for Canberra’s reserve grade side earned him a spot in the NSW Cup team of the year. With a strong running game and brutal defense, Martin is a player to watch. But how soon will he become a regular in the Raiders’ first grade side?
Kalani Going: The Versatile Forward with a Second Chance
Going’s leadership and versatility make him a standout. After leading the Warriors to premiership glory, he’s reportedly caught the eye of the Penrith Panthers. At 28, this could be his last chance to shine in the NRL. But is he ready to step into the shoes of a depth player for one of the league’s greatest dynasties?
The Big Question: Who Will Make the Biggest Impact?
As we look ahead to 2026, the NRL is brimming with talent waiting to break through. But which of these players will rise to the top, and who will fade into obscurity? The answers may surprise you. What’s your take? Who do you think will be the next NRL superstar? Let the debate begin!
