The Newcastle Knights have been working diligently to build a team capable of making a deep run in the NRL in 2025. After a season of mixed results, the club has reviewed its player roster, analyzed areas of improvement, and crafted a lineup they believe can challenge for the title. Here’s a look at what their best 2025 lineup could look like, balancing experience with fresh talent.
**Fullback:** Kalyn Ponga
Ponga remains the cornerstone of Newcastle’s attack. A dynamic and skillful playmaker, he has the ability to change the course of a game with his footwork, passing, and kicking. Keeping Ponga fit and in form will be crucial to the Knights’ success in 2025.
**Wingers:** Dominic Young & Greg Marzhew
Young continues to be one of the most promising wingers in the NRL, possessing blistering pace and the ability to finish tries in the corner. Marzhew brings size and power, often bulldozing his way over defenders. Both players can complement each other on the edges, providing balance and versatility to the attack.
**Centers:** Bradman Best & Joe Ofahengaue
Best is one of the most dynamic centers in the league, and when he stays injury-free, his presence in the attacking line is formidable. Ofahengaue, signed for his defensive prowess and leadership, adds grit and toughness to the side, offering a steady defensive partnership with Best.
**Five-Eighth:** Jack Wighton
Wighton’s move from the South Sydney Rabbitohs to the Knights is a game-changer for Newcastle. His skill set as both a ball runner and a playmaker allows him to control the tempo of the game, and his physical presence provides a strong option in attack.
**Halfback:** Mitchell Pearce
While Pearce has been a cornerstone for Newcastle for years, his leadership and experience will continue to be indispensable in 2025. His kicking game, coupled with his ability to organize the team, is vital for setting up scoring opportunities.
**Props:** David Klemmer & Daniel Saifiti
Klemmer, with his immense physicality, continues to be a dominant force in the front row, providing strong go-forward. Saifiti, a key figure in Newcastle’s forward pack, will need to maintain his consistency and durability to ensure a powerful platform for the team.
**Hooker:** Jayden Brailey
Brailey is the heartbeat of the team, providing sharp service from dummy half and defensive stability. His ability to read the game and connect the forwards with the backs is crucial for Newcastle’s attack.
**Second Row:** Tyson Frizell & Lachlan Fitzgibbon
Frizell’s experience and work rate make him a top-tier forward, while Fitzgibbon’s energy and defensive capabilities provide an excellent balance to the pack.
**Lock:** Jacob Saifiti
Jacob has emerged as one of the most dynamic locks in the league, with his combination of ball-playing skills and tough defensive work providing a key link between the forwards and backs.
**Bench:** Brodie Jones, Leo Thompson, Kurt Mann, and Simi Sasagi
This bench offers depth and versatility, with players capable of stepping into key positions when needed. Jones adds energy, Thompson brings impact, Mann can cover multiple roles, and Sasagi’s potential is just beginning to be tapped.
This lineup is a blend of experience and raw talent, with the potential to make a serious run at the 2025 NRL finals, provided the team stays healthy and plays to its potential.
