We're at the business end of the 2025 NRL season.
As the top eight picture becomes clearer, which clubs could actually challenge for a premiership this year?
The Sporting News takes a look at the contenders and pretenders with seven rounds remaining.
MORE: Raiders in reach of elusive 35-year-long achievement
Contenders
Raiders
Canberra are on track for a surprise minor premiership - even with a shock loss to the Dragons.
The team's will to win is admirable, and should put them in great stead for the finals.
Ricky Stuart also has a grand final under his belt as coach – a narrow loss in 2019.
While the bulk of the current team didn't feature in that match, their coach can be trusted to guide the club to another decider.
Storm
As long as Craig Bellamy is at the helm, Melbourne will continue to be consistent premiership contenders.
The Storm have been underwhelming at times this season, but there is little doubt they can go deep in the finals.
If their superstar spine stays fit, there is every chance their multiple premiership-winning coach can steer them to another triumph.
Broncos
There have been some growing pains under new coach Michael Maguire, but the Broncos are starting to fire at the right time.
A top-four berth remains a possibility, which would put them in an ideal position to enjoy a finals charge.
A solid chunk of the squad from their 2023 grand final defeat remains, including Adam Reynolds, Payne Haas and Patrick Carrigan.
Brisbane can be trusted to at least make a dent in the post-season.
Panthers
It's hard to believe Penrith sat at the bottom of the ladder earlier this season.
The four-time and reigning champions have turned things around, though.
Are they quite as fearsome as years prior? No.
But with Nathan Cleary running the show and extensive finals experience under the team's belt, you'd be very silly to rule the Panthers out.
Pretenders
Bulldogs
You could certainly make a Bulldogs premiership case, but recent form should make us rethink their credentials.
Lachlan Galvin's introduction has seemed to destabilise the side somewhat.
In their last five matches, they have lost some spark and confidence in attack, losing two and winning two of the remaining three narrowly.
Exception: Putting the Sea Eagles to the sword in round 21.
If they can regain that feel-good factor they boasted in the first few months of the season, they could be contenders, but it's tough to fully trust this young side for the time being.
Warriors
The Warriors have been such a fun team to watch in 2025.
ACL injuries to Mitchell Barnett and Luke Metcalf, however, could be too much to overcome in the finals.
If they can hold onto their top-four spot, a gritty first-round upset over a higher-ranked opponent is possible, but it's hard to see them sustaining a deep run without two of their most valuable players.
Sea Eagles
Manly were starting to hum as a side, but do they lack the bite required for a premiership charge?
They have shown signs of promise this season, although surprise, heavy losses against the Eels, Titans Bulldogs and Roosters emphasise their volatility as a side.
Sharks
After making a preliminary final last year, can Cronulla take another step in 2025?
A win over the Roosters in Round 20 was a pleasing sign that they can perform when needed.
However, the team hasn't necessarily improved significantly compared to last year.
With so many other sides surging, they may be outclassed in this finals series.
Dolphins
Most footy fans want to see the Dolphins play finals footy.
Their points differential is the second-best in the league – a testament to their exciting, attacking play style.
On their day, they can play teams off the park, but expectations should be somewhat tempered if they feature in their maiden finals series.
Roosters
After a poor start, the Tricolours regained some promising form, but have since slumped.
With a host of Origin stars in their side and veteran coach Trent Robinson at the helm, the Roosters have the making of a premiership-contending team.
However, they have lost more games than they have won in 2025, with their inconsistency making them tough to back this post-season, should they crack the top eight.