Emerging Young Talent Set to Shine in Super League 2025
As the new year approaches, the anticipation for the upcoming Super League season is building. One aspect that always captivates rugby league fans is the emergence of promising young talent. In 2024, Wigan’s Junior Nsemba was the standout, leading the Warriors to glory in every major competition.
Looking ahead to 2025, we’ve identified a young gun from each Super League side that is set to make waves in the coming season. These players are all currently aged 23 or under, with the likes of St Helens’ Jack Welsby and Hull FC’s Logan Moy excluded, as they have already established themselves as Super League stars.
Castleford Tigers – Fletcher Rooney
The versatile back made his debut in Castleford’s final game of 2023 and featured three times in the season just gone. Former Tigers coach Craig Lingard tipped Rooney to reach double figures in appearances in 2025, and his potential is evident.
Catalans Dragons – Loan Castano
The loose forward has come through the Dragons’ youth ranks and made three senior appearances, including one on loan for Toulouse Olympique in 2023. With his development alongside experienced skipper Ben Garcia, Castano is poised for a more substantial role next year.
Huddersfield Giants – Thomas Deakin
The Oldham-born hooker, who grew up in Australia, joined the Giants in 2024 and featured eight times. With more opportunities expected under Luke Robinson, Deakin is primed to seize his chance to shine.
Hull FC – Nick Staveley
The utility forward is highly rated at the MKM Stadium, and his progress was hampered by a season-ending ACL injury in 2024. Fit and ready to go for the new campaign, Staveley should add to his eight senior appearances under new coach John Cartwright.
Hull KR – Leo Tennison
The towering prop from Hull has been around the Craven Park first-team for a few years, making just one senior appearance so far. With the Robins’ front-row depth, Tennison’s chance is on the horizon, and he is expected to impress when given the opportunity.
Leeds Rhinos – Tom Nicholson-Watton
The prop has been rewarded with a three-year deal at Headingley, showcasing the Rhinos’ faith in his potential. After making his debut in 2023 and featuring seven times in 2024, Nicholson-Watton’s ceiling is high, and he is one to watch closely.
Leigh Leopards – Will Brough
The son of Super League icon Danny Brough, the teenage centre has starred for Wakefield’s youth sides and is now set to make his senior debut with the Leopards in 2025 after joining the club.
Salford Red Devils – Matty Foster
The back-rower already has 21 senior appearances under his belt, including ten in Super League. Despite a season-ending ankle injury in 2024, the Red Devils have extended his contract, and he is poised to play a significant role for Paul Rowley’s side.
St Helens – Noah Stephens
The prop was given plenty of game time by Paul Wellens in 2024, making 14 appearances off the bench for the Saints. With more opportunities expected in 2025, Stephens is on the cusp of securing a regular starting spot.
Wakefield Trinity – Noah Booth
The versatile back has already amassed eight senior appearances for Trinity, and with the club building an impressive squad, Booth is set to feature prominently in their 2025 campaign.
Warrington Wolves – Leon Hayes
The half-back was the first-choice partner for George Williams before a season-ending ankle injury in 2024. Fit and ready for the new season, Hayes is expected to reclaim his starting spot under Sam Burgess.
Wigan Warriors – Taylor Kerr
The local loose forward is highly regarded within the Warriors’ system and is yet to make his senior debut. However, with Wigan’s track record of nurturing young talent, Kerr is poised to seize his opportunity in 2025.
These young players represent the future of Super League, and their development will undoubtedly captivate rugby league fans in the coming season. Keep an eye out for these emerging talents as they look to make their mark in 2025.
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