In a year with many constants; Penrith Panthers' continued dominance, a third-consecutive wooden spoon for the Wests Tigers, and the exit of yet another Blues coach, there were also plenty of plot twists.
This season saw the resurgence of many veteran players, as well as the rise of some younger footballers who finally hit their potential. Five players stood out in particular, elevating their game to heights many didn't see coming.
With some players fighting tooth and nail for a new contract, and others getting the opportunity to shine in fresh circumstances, it's safe to say that these players will all be mainstays in their respective clubs for years to come.
22. Tyran Wishart (Melbourne Storm)
When Cameron Munster succumbed to his ongoing groin injuries earlier in the season, many wrote off the Melbourne Storm, who would be without their star five-eighth for the foreseeable future.
However, when utility Tyran Wishart stepped up in his absence, it seemed that the Storm's premiership hopes weren't quite over yet.
Known as one of the better bench players in the NRL, Wishart was simply waiting for his shot at a starting position at the Storm.
Once it was granted to him, the 25-year-old showcased his tactical rugby league IQ and lethal attacking ability, thriving next to his Dally M-winning halves partner, Jahrome Hughes.
His versatility and ambition are what ultimately kept him in the starting 17 following Munster's return, telling foxsports.com.au “Whatever role I can play to get there, I'm willing to do”.
Wishart's exemplary 2024 campaign saw him scoring 12 tries and 14 goals in his 26 appearances for the Storm, where he played in various spine and bench positions.
That’s one of the most interesting articles I have read recently.
If you had asked me to name one of the five “most improved” I might have picked Lomax, but until you pointed out what the others had done, I would not have considered any of them.