Managing the salary cap is absolutely crucial when it comes to achieving success in rugby league.
Clubs can't just stack a team with 20 superstars on huge money and watch the wins pile up.
Coaches are paid big dollars to get the most out of players.
One of the most enjoyable aspects of each season is seeing which players develop into stars.
Today I am here to highlight ten such players who achieved that this year. Moreso those who improved in a big way.
Rookies won't be included for obvious reasons. Mark Nawaqanitawase was not considered for this reason.
These are ranked but honestly the difference between them is so small I'd be happy to swap any position, other than the undisputed number one.
Below are the 10 most improved players from the 2025 season:
Honourable Mentions: Jaxon Purdue, Jack Williams & Simi Sasagi.
7. Casey McLean
Penrith youngster Casey McLean burst onto the scene in last year's Pacific Championship, scoring a hatty for the Kiwis on debut.
He took that experience and turned it into a worldly season. Honestly, it all seemed to click a few weeks after he was moved into the centres, from the wing.
23 appearances, up from the seven he made last year, McLean crossed for 16 tries, had 11 try assists, broke 61 tackles and looked every bit the superstar centre.
If he continues on this trajectory, he'll be unstoppable in 2026. He was borderline unstoppable against the Samoan team last weekend.
