The 2026 NRL season is beginning to take shape, and the last three rounds have given us a clear snapshot of contenders, pretenders, and the unpredictable middle pack. We’ve seen statement wins, surprise blowouts, and key injuries already reshaping the ladder.
Heavyweights like the Panthers and Sharks are building momentum, while teams like the Tigers and Titans have shown flashes of tremendous improvement despite inconsistency.
With that in mind, here are our tips and predictions for every match this weekend!
North Queensland Cowboys v Manly Warringah Sea Eagles
Both sides have had shaky starts to the season, with Manly among the teams that struggled early to register wins. The Cowboys, however, remain a different proposition at home, where their forward pack typically lays a strong platform. Manly’s attacking upside is always dangerous, but their defensive inconsistencies across the opening rounds are a concern. Expect the Cowboys to control field position and grind this one out.
Tip: Cowboys by 8
Canberra Raiders v Melbourne Storm
The Raiders entered 2026 off the back of a minor premiership, proving they can match it with anyone. However, the Storm remain one of the most disciplined outfits in the competition and are notoriously hard to beat when they control the ruck. Recent form suggests Melbourne aren’t the powerhouse they once were, and the experienced Raiders forward pack could smell blood in the water.
Tip: Raiders by 6
Dolphins v Penrith Panthers
Penrith look ominous again in 2026, with a settled squad and elite spine firing after a strong finish to last season. The Dolphins, while improving, have struggled for consistency week-to-week. If the Panthers dominate possession, their clinical edge will prove too much. Expect them to put last week’s loss to the Dogs behind them.
Tip: Panthers by 14
New Zealand Warriors v Gold Coast Titans
The Warriors have shown balance and resilience early in the season, including strong wins against disrupted opposition. Meanwhile, the Titans continue to show promise but struggle with lapses in concentration in defence. At home in New Zealand, the Warriors’ physical pack and crowd energy should overwhelm the Titans late.
Tip: Warriors by 12
South Sydney Rabbitohs v St George Illawarra Dragons
South Sydney have started the year with attacking confidence and depth across the park, making them one of the more dangerous sides when in rhythm. The Dragons, on the other hand, are still rebuilding after narrowly avoiding the wooden spoon last season and remain inconsistent across 80 minutes.
Tip: Rabbitohs by 18
Wests Tigers v Brisbane Broncos
The Tigers are one of the more intriguing teams of 2026, coming off improved performances and even posting big wins in recent rounds. But the Broncos, as reigning premiers, still possess elite strike power and big-game experience. However expect the Broncos evergrowing injury list to catch up with them.
Tip: Tigers by 10
Sydney Roosters v Newcastle Knights
The Roosters have shown attacking spark but have been vulnerable defensively at times. The Knights, meanwhile, have had to reshuffle due to key injuries, which has disrupted their spine. That instability could prove costly against a Roosters side capable of capitalising on broken defensive structures.
Tip: Roosters by 18
Parramatta Eels v Canterbury Bankstown Bulldogs
This shapes as one of the games of the round. The Bulldogs are emerging as genuine contenders in 2026, tipped to push deep into the finals after dominating the Panthers last week. Parramatta, however, are building nicely and remain dangerous when their forward pack gets on the front foot. Expect a tight contest early, but Canterbury’s defensive resilience will be the difference.
Tip: Bulldogs by 22
Final Thoughts
The last few rounds have shown just how tight the 2026 NRL competition is shaping up to be. Blowout results, surprise winners, and shifting momentum mean there are very few “safe” tips each week. Teams like Penrith and Canterbury are finding rhythm, while sides like the Tigers and Warriors are proving they can no longer be taken lightly. As always, form, injuries, and momentum will play a huge role but that’s what makes rugby league the most unpredictable and exciting game of all. If you’re backing your team this weekend, make sure you’re geared up and ready to go with all the latest officially licensed jerseys, training gear, flags, beanies and more from Jerseys Megastore, for all things footy!
