South Sydney’s 2026 NRL campaign is shaping up to begin with fireworks — and plenty of expectation. With the predicted Round 1 teams emerging, all eyes are on Redfern, where the Rabbitohs are tipped to field an all-star centre pairing featuring Latrell Mitchell and Jack Wighton. Two of the game’s biggest names, long-time Origin teammates and close friends, now find themselves lining up side by side in the famous cardinal and myrtle.
This move signals a new tactical shift for Souths — one built on power, creativity, and unpredictability. Mitchell, who has made a career redefining the modern fullback role, could slide into centre not just to unleash his attacking flair but to help control the game’s tempo from wider channels. Wighton, meanwhile, brings toughness, defensive reliability, and that trademark explosive running game that has terrorized opposition edges for years. Together, they give the Rabbitohs something few teams can match: two genuine game-breakers in the same lane.
Coach Jason Demetriou’s predicted Round 1 lineup is expected to feature Mitchell and Wighton alongside Cody Walker and Lachlan Ilias in the spine, with the ever-reliable Damien Cook at hooker. That combination promises both experience and spark — a balance Souths lacked at times during the 2025 season. The big question will be how the reshuffle affects their rhythm in attack, particularly with Mitchell stepping away from fullback duties. But with young gun Jye Gray tipped to start at the back, fans are excited about the new dynamic.
Up front, the Rabbitohs are expected to field a formidable pack led by captain Cameron Murray, supported by Keaon Koloamatangi, Jai Arrow, and the hard-running Davvy Moale. It’s a mobile, aggressive forward unit designed to win the ruck and create early momentum — something that could give Mitchell and Wighton prime opportunities to strike on the edges.
There’s also plenty of intrigue around the interchange bench. Souths are blessed with depth, meaning talents like Siliva Havili, Tallis Duncan, and Liam Knight could all feature in rotation. Their ability to maintain intensity and physicality off the bench will be crucial in setting the tone for the season.
Off the field, the chemistry between Wighton and Mitchell has been one of the NRL’s most talked-about friendships. Their reunion at Souths isn’t just a tactical move — it’s an emotional one. Both players have spoken openly about wanting to bring leadership, passion, and cultural pride to the club. That unity could prove to be a defining factor as the Rabbitohs look to reclaim their place among the competition’s elite.
If this predicted Round 1 lineup comes to fruition, Souths fans have every reason to be excited. The combination of star power, experience, and youth gives the side an enviable mix that few rivals can match. After an up-and-down 2025 campaign, the message from Redfern is clear: The Rabbitohs are ready to rise again.
With Latrell and Wighton at the heart of it, Round 1 could be just the start of something special. 🐰🔥
