My Five Warriors to Stand Out In 2025

With the 2025 Season nearing, my Season preview is on hold until the pre-season matches are played. I wanted to offer my opinions on the five players I think will have big seasons in Warriors colours. The rankings are in no particular order, so let’s jump into my list.

1. Luke Metcalf

First on my list is Luke Metcalf.
His injury in 2024 limited his season to only seven games, giving him no real chance to form a partnership with Shaun Johnson. Despite playing single-digit matches, he made his presence felt with 3 tries and 9 out of 12 conversions; he also had 4 try assists and averaged 76 running metres per game.

With Shaun Johnson hanging up the boots, the Warriors are looking for a new half to take control, and Luke Metcalf has made it clear he’s ready to take on the challenge. His blistering pace and sharp eye for gaps have already impressed Warriors fans, showcasing his potential as a game-changer. With a full offseason to fine-tune his decision-making and enhance his kicking game, Metcalf is poised to lift his performance and become the spark the team needs to compete with the NRL’s best. All he needs is a bit of luck to stay injury-free and make his mark.

2. James Fisher-Harris

The news of James Fisher-Harris’s signing pleasantly surprised Warriors fans in an underwhelming 2024 season. He brings a wealth of experience and impressive performances from his tenure with the Penrith Panthers. In 2024, Fisher-Harris demonstrated his durability and consistency by appearing in 23 matches, scoring 4 tries and averaging 128 running metres a game.

With Tohu Harris retiring and Addin Fonua-Blake departing for the Sharks, James Fisher-Harris is expected to take on a crucial leadership role for the Warriors. His imposing physicality and world-class ability as a prop will add significant firepower to the forward pack, ensuring the team remains a force through the middle. However, his most significant impact may come off the field—mentoring the club’s rising forwards, instilling a winning mentality, and shaping the next generation of Warriors enforcers. His experience and relentless work ethic will set the standard for the pack, making him a cornerstone of the team’s future.

3. Demitric Vaimauga

Demitric Vaimauga comes into 2025 as one of several young players who are on the precipice of becoming regular first-graders in the NRL. After rehabbing from knee surgery, Vaimauga played 4 matches in first grade, scoring one try. He also played 20 games in the New South Wales Cup, averaging 89 metres and 22 tackles a game and ending the year with 53 tackle breaks.

With his blend of raw power, athleticism, and unwavering work ethic, Vaimauga is set to be a breakout star for the Warriors in 2025. A tough, mobile forward with a solid defensive presence, Vaimauga can dominate in contact and generate momentum down the middle of the field. His aggressive style of play, paired with a high motor and developing skill set, makes him a player to watch as he takes on a more significant role in the squad. With veterans like Tohu Harris retiring and Addin Fonua-Blake moving on, Vaimauga has a prime opportunity to step up and establish himself as a key figure in the Warriors’ pack. Under the guidance of experienced leaders like James Fisher-Harris, he holds the potential to blossom into one of the NRL’s most exciting young forwards, adding both impact and energy to the team’s forward rotation.

4. Ali Leiataua

Ali Leiataua is another youngster set for a big 2025 if he can stay healthy. In 2024, Leiataua made 6 NRL appearances, scoring 3 tries and averaging 126 running metres per match. He also contributed 2 line breaks and 2 try assists, showcasing his offensive capabilities; his defensive efforts were also notable, with 70 tackles made and a tackle efficiency of 88.6%.

Leiataua’s combination of power, speed, and strong defensive presence makes him a standout in the Warriors’ backline. A dynamic ball-runner with the ability to break tackles and create second-phase opportunities, he adds a potent strike threat to the team’s midfield. His physicality and footwork make him difficult to contain, while his defensive presence ensures stability on the edge. With another full pre-season under his belt and growing confidence at the first-grade level, Leiataua is poised to make a significant impact and establish himself as a key weapon for the Warriors.

5. Taine Tuaupiki

Many Warriors fans have been begging to see Taine Tuaupiki get more game time, and 2025 may finally be the year that happens. In 2024, Tuaupiki made 6 NRL appearances, averaging 152 running metres, scoring one try, and converting three of his three conversions. He also amassed 100 points in 12 New South Wales Cup games.

With remarkable speed, agility, and attacking brilliance, Tuaupiki possesses an uncanny ability to slice through defensive lines and create invaluable opportunities for his teammates. His flair in the backline adds a spark that can ignite a shift in momentum at pivotal moments. Combining impressive footwork with exceptional vision, he reads the game with precision, while his solid defensive contributions make him just as reliable when the Warriors are under pressure. As he gains more experience and hones his understanding of the NRL, Tuaupiki is primed to elevate his game, emerging as a key playmaker for the Warriors.

So, those were my picks for the five Warriors players I think will stand out in 2025. Next week, I will offer my thoughts on the five players I believe must improve the most. Until then, let me know what you think of my choices and who you think will have a big season this year.