With the NRL season coming to a close, those who started a new chapter in their rugby league career have been given ample time to prove their worth to their new teammates, clubs and fans.

Naturally, some have disappointed, with veterans failing to live up to their reputations, or young talent thrown in the deep end too quickly.

However, some have been just as good on the pitch as they originally seemed on paper.

Whether it be bargain buys, diamonds in the rough or blockbuster signings, these are the players who have not only met expectations but exceeded them, transforming their teams in both subtle and spectacular ways.

So, in no particular order, here are the eight best signings of the 2025 NRL season.

2Isaiah Iongi

NRL Rd 1 – Storm v Eels
MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - MARCH 09: Isaiah Iongi of the Eelsis tackled during the round one NRL match between the Melbourne Storm and the Parramatta Eels at AAMI Park on March 09, 2025, in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Quinn Rooney/Getty Images)

If it were not for Robert Toia, Isaiah Iongi would be the rookie of the year.

Jason Ryles brought Iongi over from Penrith, viewing him as the Parramatta Eels' long-term fullback, so much so that he even let go of club captain Clinton Gutherson.

It was a move that raised a lot of questions, especially with the team losing their opening four fixtures.

However, Iongi proved the doubters wrong and has been an exceptional signing for the Eels, repaying Ryles' faith and truly cementing himself as the club's long-term fullback.

Eight tries, twelve try assists and ten line breaks are more than impressive outputs for a 22-year-old playing his first full season in the NRL.