The top SEVEN backs and playmakers to watch in 2025

The 2025 NRL season is less than a month away and every team will look to rely on their back-line and playmakers to kick-start the attack when they get the ball in their hands. Ahead of the season's opening match in Las Vegas, Zero Tackle examines the top seven backs and playmaker to watch during the 2025 NRL season. Reece Walsh (Brisbane Broncos) The electric fullback will be looking to take his game to new heights after pre-season questions about his match fitness. Walsh's 2024 season was a mixed bag, with moments of brilliance interspersed with some inconsistent performances. Copping several big hits saw him take a backwards step, and he will be revived for 2025. [caption id="attachment_158134" align="alignnone" width="696"] BRISBANE, AUSTRALIA - JUNE 21: Reece Walsh of the Maroons makes a break during game two of the State of Origin series between the Queensland Maroons and the New South Wales Blues at Suncorp Stadium on June 21, 2023 in Brisbane, Australia. (Photo by Chris Hyde/Getty Images)[/caption] Selwyn Cobbo (Brisbane Broncos) Despite high expectations, Cobbo's 2024 season was a mixed bag, marked by a challenging transition to the centre position and a significant drop in try-scoring output. He managed only six tries in 19 appearances, down from 20 in the previous year, though he still showcased his potential with impressive tackle-breaking ability and solid running meters. Looking ahead to 2025, Cobbo will be aiming to bounce back, potentially returning to his preferred wing position and recapturing the form that made him one of the league's most exciting young talents. [caption id="attachment_117920" align="alignnone" width="696"] MACKAY, AUSTRALIA - FEBRUARY 26: Selwyn Cobbo of the Broncos runs the ball during the NRL Trial match between the North Queensland Cowboys and the Brisbane Broncos at BB Print Stadium on February 26, 2022 in Mackay, Australia. (Photo by Ian Hitchcock/Getty Images)[/caption] Brian To'o (Penrith Panthers) A consistent performer, To'o will be key to Penrith's attack. To'o maintained his high standards in 2024, leading the league in post-contact meters and proving crucial to Penrith's go-forward. With several experienced players departing, To'o's role in getting the Panthers on the front foot will be more important than ever in 2025. [caption id="attachment_211671" align="alignnone" width="696"] Brian To'o. (Photo: Joshua Davis)[/caption] Dominic Young (Sydney Roosters) In his second year with the Roosters, Young could become one of the NRL's top try-scorers. Young's first season with the Roosters in 2024 was solid yet unspectacular, as he adjusted to a new system and combination. With a full preseason to further integrate into the Roosters' structures, 2025 could see Young fulfill his enormous potential. [caption id="attachment_217157" align="alignnone" width="696"] SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA - JULY 07: Dominic Young of the Roosters celebrates scoring a try during the round 18 NRL match between Sydney Roosters and St George Illawarra Dragons at Allianz Stadium, on July 07, 2024, in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Cameron Spencer/Getty Images)[/caption] James Tedesco (Sydney Roosters) The Roosters captain had a rollercoaster 2024 season, dropped from the NSW State of Origin team, but producing an outstanding second half of the season, ultimately finishing as the runner-up in the Dally M Medal count. Heading into 2025, Tedesco will be determined to maintain his elite form, silence any remaining doubters, and lead the Roosters back to premiership contention - and potentially reclaiming his Blues jersey. [caption id="attachment_125678" align="alignnone" width="696"] MANCHESTER, ENGLAND - NOVEMBER 19: James Tedesco of Australia in actio during the Rugby League World Cup Final match between Australia and Samoa at Old Trafford on November 19, 2022 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Jan Kruger/Getty Images for RLWC)[/caption] Daly Cherry-Evans (Manly Sea Eagles) The experienced halfback will be crucial in guiding Manly's young squad. Cherry-Evans showed no signs of slowing down in 2024, orchestrating Manly's attack with his usual precision and game management. His leadership and composure will be vital in 2025 as the Sea Eagles look to build on their progress and push for a top-four finish. [caption id="attachment_160219" align="alignnone" width="696"] SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA - JUNE 09: Daly Cherry-Evans of the Sea Eagles runs the ball during the round 15 NRL match between Manly Sea Eagles and Dolphins at 4 Pines Park on June 09, 2023 in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Jason McCawley/Getty Images)[/caption] Cameron Munster (Melbourne Storm) Munster's 2024 season was significantly hampered by a persistent groin injury, causing him to miss a substantial portion of the year and limiting his impact when on the field. He showed flashes of his brilliance in the games he did play, reminding everyone of his quality. Having undergone surgery in the off-season to address the issue, Munster could be a slow starter in a team that are slated as favourites to return to the top of the mountain in 2025.