The Canberra Raiders stunned many in 2025.

Written off by most before a ball was kicked, they responded by claiming their first minor premiership in 35 years.

They made a statement on opening night in Las Vegas, flogging the New Zealand Warriors. They beat every team in the top eight except the Canterbury Bulldogs, a match they led 20–0 at halftime before letting it slip away.

Their first final against the Brisbane Broncos was one of the games of the season. Leading 28–12 with roughly 17 minutes remaining, they were ambushed by a Reece Walsh led comeback after his return from the sin bin.

The Raiders thought they had the match won on three separate occasions only for tries to be disallowed. A penalty after the siren tied the match and sent it into golden point, where Brisbane prevailed.

Six days later they fell to the Cronulla Sharks and went out in straight sets. Ricky Stuart was named Coach of the Year, but for the Raiders to take the next step, several players must rise again in 2026.

4. Corey Horsburgh

Corey Horsburgh, Big Red, is pure passion in a jersey. In 2024 he spent most of the season out of form, with reports of tensions between him and the coaching staff.

But 2025 was a statement year. He played strongly across the season and reminded everyone why he's so highly regarded in Canberra.

With Josh Papalii expected to retire at the end of 2026, Horsburgh will be looked upon to carry the mantle as the Raiders' next forward leader.

He has the skill set and heart to do it, but his consistency under pressure and discipline will determine whether he takes that next step.

Why his role is so important

  • He can match any forward pack in the game when he's at his best.
  • His passion lifts the team, but it must be channelled productively.
  • A more composed Horsburgh would give Canberra a reliable on field leader through the middle.

Key areas of focus for 2026

  • Maintaining discipline under pressure in big moments.
  • Becoming more of a leader in the forward rotation as Papalii approaches retirement.
  • Keeping his work rate high without emotional lapses.
  • Taking his game from strong contributor to cornerstone leader.

If Horsburgh embraces that role, he could become the emotional and physical heartbeat of the Raiders forward pack.