The top 50 NRL players of 2026: 40-31 (Part 2)

Zero Tackle has released the second installment of its top 50 NRL players of 2026, counting down from numbers 40 to 31. The list features several standout performers from the season, highlighted by Sydney Roosters premiership winner Daly Cherry-Evans at 40 and St George Illawarra Dragons forward Hamish Stewart at 31. The selection covers players from multiple clubs, including the Dolphins, Titans, and Warriors.

According to writer Scott Pryde, Cherry-Evans proved crucial in guiding the Roosters to a title, while Stewart led the NRL with 996 tackles. Other notable inclusions feature Canterbury's Jacob Preston at 39, Dolphins back Jack Bostock at 38, Roosters centre Robert Toia at 37, Canberra's Joseph Tapine at 36, and Titans winger Phillip Sami at 35.