LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
The NRL has exhibited a pattern regarding its top eight teams in recent seasons.
Over the past four years, the trend has been consistent: three teams enter the top eight while three others drop out.
Beginning with the 2022 season, three new teams have joined the top eight, with three teams from the previous season making their exit.
2022
In: North Queensland Cowboys, Canberra Raiders, Cronulla Sharks
Out: Gold Coast Titans, Manly Sea Eagles, Newcastle Knights
2023
In: Brisbane Broncos, Newcastle Knights, New Zealand Warriors
Out: South Sydney Rabbitohs, Parramatta Eels, North Queensland Cowboys
2024
In: Canterbury Bulldogs, North Queensland Cowboys, Manly Sea Eagles
Out: Brisbane Broncos, Canberra Raiders, New Zealand Warriors
2025
In: Brisbane Broncos, Canberra Raiders, New Zealand Warriors
Out: North Queensland Cowboys, Newcastle Knights, Manly Sea Eagles
Given this recurring pattern, one can speculate on potential changes for the 2026 season when predicting which teams may make it into the top eight.