The 2026 Super League season is almost upon us, and with it comes a wave of excitement and anticipation. But here's the real question: which new signings will set the league alight? Sky Sports' Megan Wellens has pinpointed 10 players who could be game-changers for their respective clubs. Let's dive into these intriguing transfers and explore what makes them so compelling.
Jacob Alick-Wiencke: The Towering Presence
Age: 26
Position: Back row
Former Club: Gold Coast Titans
New Club: Leigh Leopards
Standing at an impressive 6ft 5in, Papua New Guinea international Jacob Alick-Wiencke is set to bolster the Leigh Leopards' pack. Signed for three years, he steps into the shoes of Ethan O'Neill, and head coach Adrian Lam is counting on him to bring that elusive 'x-factor' to the team. But can he live up to the hype? Only time will tell, but expectations are high for this towering forward.
Tyson Smoothy: The Grand Final Hero
Age: 26
Position: Hooker
Former Club: Brisbane Broncos
New Club: Wakefield Trinity
Fresh off an NRL Grand Final triumph with the Brisbane Broncos, Tyson Smoothy joins Wakefield Trinity on a three-year deal. Despite having only 46 first-team appearances, his potential is undeniable. But here's where it gets interesting: Smoothy is expected to transition from a bench hooker to a starting role, bringing his big-game experience to Daryl Powell's side. Will he be the missing piece Wakefield needs?
Jackson Hastings: The Man of Steel Returns
Age: 30
Position: Scrum-half, Stand-off
Former Club: Newcastle Knights
New Club: St Helens
Jackson Hastings is no stranger to Super League fans. Having won the Man of Steel award in 2019 while leading Salford to the Grand Final, he now joins St Helens to fill a crucial gap in their halfback position. Partnered with Tristan Sailor, his kicking game and playmaking abilities are expected to transform the team. But can he recapture his past glory? St Helens fans are certainly hoping so.
Lewis Dodd: The Point to Prove
Age: 23
Position: Scrum-half
Former Club: South Sydney Rabbitohs
New Club: Catalans Dragons
Lewis Dodd had a rough stint in the NRL with South Sydney, making only six appearances. Now, he returns to Super League with Catalans Dragons, determined to prove his worth. Remember his golden point match-winning drop goal in the 2023 World Club Challenge? And this is the part most people miss: With nearly 100 appearances under his belt, he could be the leader Catalans desperately need. Will 2026 be his redemption year?
Jazz Tevaga: The Experienced Leader
Age: 30
Position: Loose forward, Hooker
Former Club: Manly Sea Eagles
New Club: Wakefield Trinity
Samoan international Jazz Tevaga brings a decade of NRL experience to Wakefield Trinity. Known for his relentless standards, he's expected to be a key leader in the pack. But here's the controversial part: Can a player in his 30s still dominate in Super League? Wakefield is betting big on Tevaga, and his impact could be pivotal.
Harvie Hill: The Young Gun
Age: 22
Position: Prop
Former Club: Wigan Warriors
New Club: Hull FC
Hull FC has invested heavily in young prop Harvie Hill, and for good reason. Coming from Wigan's renowned academy, he's expected to be a consistently top performer. But here's the question: Can he live up to the lofty expectations? Hull FC's Director of Rugby, Gareth Ellis, certainly thinks so, calling his signing a 'statement of intent.'
Liam Byrne: The Culture Carrier
Age: 26
Position: Prop
Former Club: Wigan Warriors
New Club: Warrington Wolves
With over 100 appearances for Wigan and a cabinet full of trophies, Liam Byrne brings leadership and a winning culture to Warrington Wolves. But will it be enough? The pack needs a leader, and Byrne is expected to step up. However, transitioning from a dominant club like Wigan to a rebuilding Warrington won't be easy.
Chris Patolo: The Rising Star
Age: 24
Position: Prop
Former Club: Manly Sea Eagles
New Club: Huddersfield Giants
Chris Patolo may be young, but he's already turning heads at Huddersfield Giants. Head coach Luke Robinson praises his size, speed, and field awareness, calling him a standout in pre-season. But here's the twist: Huddersfield needs improvement in multiple areas, and Patolo is expected to lead the charge. Can he deliver on such high expectations?
Paul Vaughan: The Veteran Guide
Age: 34
Position: Prop
Former Club: Warrington Wolves
New Club: York Knights
York Knights, new to the Super League, have turned to experienced prop Paul Vaughan to guide them through their debut season. Known for his leadership, Vaughan will need to be more than just a voice—he'll need to be a rock. But at 34, does he still have what it takes? York is counting on him to lead by example.
Ollie Partington: The Intriguing Return
Age: 27
Position: Loose forward
Former Club: Catalans Dragons
New Club: Wigan Warriors
Ollie Partington's return to Wigan Warriors, following a late swap with Kruise Leeming, has raised eyebrows. With Brad O'Neill as the starting hooker, Partington is expected to play a key role in bolstering the pack. But here's the controversial part: Can he adapt to this new role and make a significant impact? Matt Peet's Warriors are certainly hoping so.
Key Dates to Watch in 2026 Super League
- Opening Night: Thu Feb 12 - York Knights v Hull KR, 8pm (Sky Sports)
- World Club Challenge: Thu Feb 19 - Hull KR v Brisbane Broncos, 7:30pm (Sky Sports)
- Rugby League in Las Vegas: Sat Feb 28 - Hull KR v Leeds Rhinos, TBC (Sky Sports)
- Super League's 30th Birthday: Thu Mar 26 - Castleford Tigers v Bradford Bulls, 8pm (Sky Sports)
- Magic Weekend: July 4-July 5
- Grand Final: October 3, Old Trafford
Sky Sports will once again bring every game live, with two matches per round exclusively on Sky Sports and the remaining five on Sky Sports+. But here's the final thought: With so many new signings and key dates, which moments will define the 2026 season? Let us know your predictions in the comments—we'd love to hear your take!
