Top 50 NRL Players of 2026: Breakdown of Positions 20 to 11

The annual ranking of the competition's elite talent reaches a crucial juncture in Part 4 of the 2026 countdown, published by Zero Tackle. Covering positions 20 through to 11, the section includes three players who did not feature in 2025, alongside established performers and major risers. This article highlights the key movers rather than reproducing the full list of ten positions.

zerotackle.com: SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA - SEPTEMBER 07: Simi Sasagi of the Raiders is tackled during the round 27 NRL match between St George Illawarra Dragons and Canberra Raiders at Netstrata Jubilee Stadium, on September 07, 2024, in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Mark Metcalfe/Getty Images)

Breakout Stars and Significant Movers

Selwyn Cobbo has climbed to just outside the competition's top ten after a stunning season. His elevation is accompanied by breakout years from Canberra's Simi Sasagi and South Sydney forward Tallis Duncan, both of whom were absent from the previous year's top 50.

Sasagi's transition proved important for the Raiders. Initially viewed as a versatile bench option capable of covering centre, second row, lock and potentially the halves, he finished the year as one of the game's top centres. His team-of-the-year credentials were difficult to dismiss, while Canberra's record was much better when he was on the field.

Duncan provided a similar catalyst for the Rabbitohs, enjoying a breakout campaign and playing a significant role in their return to the top eight.

zerotackle.com: WOLLONGONG, AUSTRALIA - JULY 31: Selwyn Cobbo of the Dolphins makes a break and scores a try during the round 22 NRL match between St George Illawarra Dragons and Dolphins at WIN Stadium, on July 31, 2026, in Wollongong, Australia. (Photo by Jeremy Ng/Getty Images)

Resilience in the Middle: Yeo and Brailey

Penrith co-captain Isaah Yeo produced another strong season in defence. Despite Penrith falling short of their ultimate premiership ambition, that was not down to Yeo. The lock forward made 20 appearances, tackling at almost 98 per cent while adding 18 offloads and 36 tackle breaks. He also played through the finals series with a torn pectoral muscle.

For Cronulla, hooker Blayke Brailey slipped slightly after cracking the top ten in 2025, reflecting a disappointing September for the Sharks. Nevertheless, Brailey's individual standing remains high. Operating as an 80-minute dummy half with strong running ability and clever service, he was described as a potential New South Wales starter for the 2026 State of Origin series.

Rosters Facing Transition

North Queensland fullback Scott Drinkwater was among the biggest risers in this bracket. Conversely, the Sydney Roosters face a major void with the departure of star winger Mark Nawaqanitawase, who is expected to be an enormous loss. His try-scoring ability and capacity to create something from nothing were central to his impact.