NRL's top 50 players for 2025: Staggering Panthers detail underlined as full list unveiled
NRL top 50 judges
Nine NRL commentators (clockwise from left) Andrew Johns, Brad Fittler, Darren Lockyer, Marlee Silva and Allana Ferguson were members of an esteemed panel of judges who determined the top 50 players for 2025.
Among the 50 picked were a staggering EIGHT players from Penrith's 2024 grand final winning team, including the almost unanimous No.1, Nathan Cleary. Just six of them remain, with two of the stars of that team moving on.
Scroll on for the full top 50 for 2025, as we count down from 50-1.
50. Clint Gutherson
Last year's ranking: 37
The top 50 kicks off with a bang as 'The King' attracts votes fresh off a move to the Dragons. Gutherson has made a big impression in the off-season and has been named to co-captain his new side in 2025.
49. Reuben Cotter
Last year's ranking: 31
An absolute dog in the best possible way, Cotter has cemented himself as one of the game's best forwards in recent years. While not the biggest player in stature, the Cowboys workhorse makes up for it with hard-hitting defence and tireless work.
48. Jake Trbojevic
Last year's ranking: 41
The heart and soul of Manly and one of the best defenders in the game today, as well as one of the most beloved figures off the field. Brings passion like few others and led the NSW Blues back from a game down to clinch last year's Origin series.
47. Ben Hunt
Last year's ranking: 30
After seven largely frustrating, albeit lucrative, seasons at the Dragons, the 34-year-old hooker/halfback has returned for a final fling with Brisbane, his original club.
46. Mitch Barnett
Last year's ranking: N/A
Enjoyed a breakout 2024 season with the Warriors, earning a call-up for both NSW and Australia. Has made a seamless transition from the edge to the middle over the years and is now one of the game's most consistent props.
45. Victor Radley
Last year's ranking: N/A
One of the game's great characters, Radley is already a two-time premiership winner and if not for his decision to pledge allegiance to England, would likely have earned an Origin debut.
44. Eliesa Katoa
Last year's ranking: N/A
Always looked destined for stardom since bursting onto the scene with the Warriors despite limited rugby league experience, but it took a move to Melbourne to truly unlock his potential.
43. Sam Walker
Last year's ranking: N/A
The true quality of the Roosters halfback was on display in their two finals losses when he was absent due to injury. Still only in his early 20s and learning the craft, Walker has fine-tuned his game to develop into an elite playmaker.
42. Moses Leota
Last year's ranking: 33
One half of Penrith's bash brothers during their four-straight premierships, Leota will be without his partner in crime James Fisher-Harris this season. However, that might only highlight just how much Leota actually brings to the table.
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