A grand final of legacies will determine how coaches and players are remembered forever

Writer Lee Addison argues that the 2026 NRL Grand Final between the Sydney Roosters and Newcastle Knights carries massive legacy implications for multiple players and coaches. Addison views the Roosters as favorites, noting coach Trent Robinson aims for his fourth premiership while Daly Cherry-Evans prepares for his final NRL match alongside departing cross-code star Mark Nawaqanitawase.

In contrast, Addison highlights Newcastle's fairytale run under Justin Holbrook after claiming the wooden spoon the prior season. A Knights victory would make them the first seventh-placed team to win the NRL title, though they must overcome the suspension of hooker Phoenix Crossland.