The Dolphins and Rabbitohs are both expected to rise up the ladder this year making for a fascinating opening round clash between the two.
Jamal Fogarty wastes no time squaring off against his old team with Canberra first on Manly's schedule in 2026.
Cronulla are the most heavily favoured team in Round 1 but they are no morals when they host the Gold Coast at Shark Park.
The highlight of Round 1 is unquestionably the Friday night affair between defending premiers Brisbane and the team that one the four titles prior, the Penrith Panthers.
The Roosters are the darling of pre-season futures punters but the Warriors should not be underestimated as a big home underdog.
Melbourne's Round 1 record under Craig Bellamy is irrepressible but Parramatta will fancy their chances given the seismic changes in Melbourne.
Canterbury's rise under Cameron Ciraldo should continue against a St George Illawarra side that will struggle to score points against one of the better defensive teams.
The 2026 season kicks off in Las Vegas with last year's wooden spooners Newcastle looking to start life under new coach Justin Holbrook against a patchy Cowboys team.
The NRL season is upon us, and Betseeker will have all your futures bets over the coming week in our 2026 futures series.
The NRL season is upon us, and Betseeker will have all your futures bets over the coming week in our 2026 futures series.