Top Coaches Under Pressure in 2025: Ranking Benji Marshall, Ricky Stuart, Woolf, Maguire & More
New Coaches in NRL for 2025 Season
Four NRL clubs will have new head coaches next season. Nearly half of the teams will have leaders who have previously won championships.
Coaches Under Pressure
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Benji Marshall (Wests Tigers)
The Tigers have struggled, winning three wooden spoons in a row. Marshall must quickly earn player buy-in to avoid another poor season. His handling of John Bateman’s situation is key, as their differing personalities could affect team dynamics.
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Kristian Woolf (Dolphins)
Coming off a challenging succession from Wayne Bennett, Woolf faces pressure to improve on a near finals appearance. The Dolphins must aim for a top-eight finish to demonstrate progress.
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Michael Maguire (Broncos)
Maguire’s return to coaching has brought success, but at the Broncos, expectations are immense. He must manage player egos and perform despite not having a winning season since 2015.
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Andrew Webster (Warriors)
Following a promising rookie season, Webster faced a decline in 2024. He needs to restore team performance with the help of new recruit James Fisher-Harris.
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Des Hasler (Titans)
Hasler started slow but showed improvement. With a full pre-season, he needs to deliver results or face scrutiny, as the Titans seek their first premiership.
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Adam O’Brien (Knights)
O’Brien showed passion during press conferences, but consistent performance is crucial. He must ensure the team can support star player Kalyn Ponga to break the club’s premiership drought.
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Anthony Seibold (Sea Eagles)
Seibold must build on a solid finals run. Manly’s strong roster must translate into consistent success for him to secure his position.
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Ricky Stuart (Raiders)
Despite mixed performances, Stuart remains under little threat due to his long-term contract. However, future failures may spark questions about his leadership.
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Todd Payten (Cowboys)
Payten ended the 2023 season well but must adjust after key player departures. His ability to motivate will be tested in 2025.
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Shane Flanagan (Dragons)
Flanagan exceeded expectations in his first season but lost captain Ben Hunt. Finding a capable replacement is critical for his future.
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Cameron Ciraldo (Bulldogs)
Ciraldo’s team reached the finals after years of struggle. Expectations are now high, and he must maintain performance under pressure.
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Craig Fitzgibbon (Sharks)
Fitzgibbon broke his finals curse and must now build on that success to establish the Sharks as contenders.
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Jason Ryles (Eels)
As a newcomer, Ryles has low expectations. Proving his abilities at the Eels will be key for his future.
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Trent Robinson (Roosters)
Robinson faces scrutiny after a disappointing end to a promising season. Managing the team’s roster transition will be crucial.
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Wayne Bennett (Rabbitohs)
Bennett aims to win a premiership with a third club. His success hinges on maximizing the talent at South Sydney.
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Ivan Cleary (Panthers)
Cleary enjoys job security after consecutive grand finals and championships. He faces no immediate pressure.
- Craig Bellamy (Storm)
Bellamy remains a fixture in Melbourne, with management willing to let him lead indefinitely due to his success.
Conclusion
The upcoming NRL season will see several coaches under significant pressure to perform. Each must navigate challenges with their teams to secure their positions and aim for success.