The NRL rarely stands still.
Between training sessions, media appearances, and behind-the-scenes conversations, new storylines often begin to emerge before the weekend arrives.
Throughout the week, ESPN will be gathering notes, insights, and updates from around the competition as clubs prepare for Round 3.
Titans boost
The loss of Gold Coast Titans star Jayden Campbell to start the season was a major blow for Josh Hannay’s side. Sources tell ESPN he is set to return this week; however, with Campbell’s camp indicating the hamstring injury he suffered to start the year was just a “niggle.” He is expected to feature in the side’s cross-town derby against the Cowboys on Sunday.
Schoupp’s return
The same cannot be said for Manly Sea Eagles edge Aaron Schoupp, who has now been given a timeline for return after suffering an ACL injury in 2025. Planning to return to footy as an impact backrower for Manly, he is expected to strap the boots back on in Round 8.
Panthers injury watch
Penrith Panthers’ duo of Liam’s – Martin and Henry – have both missed time to start their blistering 2026 campaign. Head coach Ivan Cleary revealed Liam Martin is “definitely a chance” of returning to the pitch in Round 3 against the Roosters, but unfortunately couldn’t say the same for Henry, who he admitted “isn’t ready.”
Stewart’s role revealed
Dragons youngster Hamish Stewart has been shifted around a fair bit to start the year, coming off the bench, featuring in the second-row, and through the middle. Shane Flanagan has relegated Stewart to the bench in both the Dragons’ starting clashes; however, the young forward admitted his expectation is to come in as the starting lock each week.
“I’ll play [in the] middle,” Stewart said after ESPN asked where he’s expected to feature for the Dragons moving forward.
“I go into each game thinking I’m going to play lock… but if [Luciano Leilua] tires out at the end of the game, I’ve got that ability to play back-row.”
Benji’s standards
The Tigers’ demolition of the North Queensland Cowboys in Round 2 was no stroke of luck, with club veterans and youngsters alike indicating a major shift in standards at training, led by head coach Benji Marshall.
“[The club’s standards] are probably a lot stricter than some of the standards I’ve been around in the past,” veteran forward Royce Hunt revealed to ESPN.
Strike back-rower Samuela Fainu echoed Hunt’s sentiments, admitting preseason was “heaps tougher.”
ESPN will continue updating this column as more storylines develop around the league.
