The Penrith Panthers remain the clear favorites for the 2025 NRL premiership due to their consistent form, strong squad depth, and stable coaching under Ivan Cleary. Their ability to maintain high performance through the Origin period and integrate emerging talent keeps them at the forefront of premiership contention. The Panthers’ cohesion and experience give them an edge in sustaining momentum across the season.
Close behind are the Melbourne Storm, who have demonstrated remarkable resilience and depth, backed by the long-term coaching continuity of Craig Bellamy. The Storm’s disciplined structure and capacity to develop younger players into key contributors make them formidable challengers. Their recent strong seasons have positioned them as serious contenders capable of reclaiming the title.
Other teams like the Cronulla Sharks show potential to break into the top tier, but the Panthers and Storm’s combination of form, depth, and coaching stability currently sets them apart as the most likely to compete for the premiership this season[1][2].