A club's most important addition doesn't always come from the transfer market.
Sometimes, it's the player already on the roster, one returning from a long injury layoff, refreshed and ready to contribute immediately.
As the 2026 NRL season approaches, several high-profile players loom as “like new recruits” for their clubs.
6. Kalyn Ponga (Knights)
When healthy, Newcastle Knights skipper Kalyn Ponga remains one of the most influential players in the competition.
A Dally M Medallist and Queensland Origin star, his attacking impact is unmatched, combining speed, footwork, and elite ball-playing.
Even in limited appearances, Ponga has consistently ranked among the league leaders for try involvements, line breaks, and attacking kicks.
A clean run into 2026 could see him return to the form that made him one of the NRL's premier fullbacks, and while he is currently said to still be rocking a moon boot, Ponga is confident he will be suiting up for his side at Vegas in Round 1.
