The 2025 NRL season is just around the corner, and fans are gearing up for another thrilling year of rugby league. With team changes, new signings, key fixtures, and premiership predictions, this season promises to be one of the most exciting yet.
Whether you’re a die-hard footy fan or a casual viewer, here’s a complete guide to everything you need to know before the NRL 2025 season kicks off.
NRL 2025 Season Overview
- 🏉 Start Date: March 2025
- 🏆 Grand Final Date: October 2025
- 📍 State of Origin: June – July 2025
- 📡 Where to Watch: Kayo Sports, Channel 9, Fox League (Foxtel)
The 2025 season will feature all 17 NRL teams, including the second-year campaign of the Dolphins, who made an impressive debut in 2023. Will they take another step forward, or will the established powerhouses continue to dominate?
Top Contenders for the NRL 2025 Premiership
🏆 1. Penrith Panthers
- The three-time champions (2021-2023) remain one of the strongest teams.
- Nathan Cleary leads a talented squad hungry for another title.
- Can they reclaim the premiership after falling short in 2024?
💙 2. Brisbane Broncos
- Reece Walsh, Adam Reynolds, and Payne Haas form one of the best cores in the NRL.
- After making the Grand Final in 2023, they’re still a top contender.
- Will they go one step further in 2025?
🐰 3. South Sydney Rabbitohs
- A star-studded squad featuring Latrell Mitchell and Cameron Murray.
- If they stay injury-free, they are genuine title threats.
🐓 4. Sydney Roosters
- With James Tedesco and Joseph Sua’ali’i, the Roosters are always dangerous.
- New signings could boost their premiership hopes.
🦈 5. Cronulla Sharks
- The Sharks continue to build under Nicho Hynes and are a dark horse in 2025.
- Can they finally make a deep finals run?
Key Matches to Watch in 2025
🔥 NRL Season Opener (March 2025)
- The first game of the season will see a blockbuster matchup to kick things off.
💥 State of Origin 2025 (June – July)
- The ultimate rivalry: New South Wales Blues vs. Queensland Maroons.
- Can Queensland retain their dominance, or will NSW bounce back?
🏟 Grand Final Rematch: Penrith vs. Brisbane
- A high-stakes showdown between two of the best teams in recent years.
🔵 Anzac Day Clash: Roosters vs. Dragons
- A traditional Anzac Day battle with one of the best atmospheres in the NRL.
🐰 Sydney Derby: Rabbitohs vs. Roosters
- One of the most heated rivalries in the NRL calendar.
Biggest Player Transfers & New Signings for 2025
🔄 Ben Hunt (Dragons → Bulldogs?) – Rumors continue about a potential move.
🔥 Joseph Sua’ali’i (Roosters → Rugby Union in 2025) – His final NRL season before switching codes.
⚡ **David Fifita (Titans → ?) ** – Will he stay or move to a premiership contender?
🚀 New Talent Incoming – Several rising stars are set to make their NRL debuts.
How to Watch NRL 2025 Live in Australia
📺 Free-to-Air TV:
- Channel 9 – Broadcasts three live games per week, including State of Origin & Grand Final.
📡 Paid Streaming & TV:
- Kayo Sports – Streams every game live and on-demand (starts at $25/month).
- Fox League (Foxtel) – Exclusive NRL360 & expert analysis.
📱 NRL Official App:
- Offers live scores, match highlights, and exclusive interviews.
🌍 International Viewing:
- Watch NRL (Official Service) – Best for fans outside Australia.
- Sky Sports (UK), Fox Sports (USA), and Spark Sport (NZ) also broadcast NRL games.
Predictions for the 2025 Season
🏆 Premiers: Brisbane Broncos
🥈 Grand Finalists: Penrith Panthers
🌟 Dally M Medal Winner: Reece Walsh (Broncos)
🚀 Rookie of the Year: TBC – Exciting young talents emerging!
🥇 Top Try Scorer: Alex Johnston (Rabbitohs)
Final Thoughts: Who Will Dominate NRL 2025?
With stacked teams, massive rivalries, and thrilling matchups, the NRL 2025 season is set to be one of the most exciting yet.
🔔 Which team are you backing for the 2025 season? Drop your predictions in the comments!