The shortlist for the 2026 Steve Prescott MBE Man of Steel award has been announced, and it features a trio of standout performers: Wigan Warriors’ dynamic duo Brad O'Neill and Adam Keighran, together with Leeds Rhinos’ electrifying full‑back Lachie Miller. This elite group emerged after a rigorous selection process carried out by a panel of five former Man of Steel winners – Ellery Hanley, Sam Tomkins, James Roby, Joe Lydon and Paul Sculthorpe – who were tasked with trimming an original list of twelve candidates down to a final three.
The panel’s methodology was systematic and thorough. Over the course of the season they convened three times, each meeting covering a distinct block of fixtures: the first session examined rounds 1‑9, the second focused on rounds 10‑18, and the third evaluated rounds 19‑27. After each review they identified a top‑five group of players who had consistently impressed across that segment of the campaign.
By the end of the season the cumulative top‑five selections included O'Neill, Keighran, Miller, Jake Connor, Umyla Hanley, Jez Litten, Tyrone May, Brodie Croft, Daryl Clark, Ash Handley, Bevan French and Jai Field. Despite a spectacular season for Leeds Rhinos, reigning Man of Steel Connor did not make the final cut. Connor’s contribution was nevertheless remarkable – he recorded 43 assists, a figure that dwarfed the next best playmaker in the competition by nearly a factor of two.
His creative vision and distribution were key factors in Leeds’ strong performances, but the panel ultimately favoured other candidates for the ultimate honour. Ellery Hanley, one of the selectors, also appeared in the panel’s top‑five on two separate occasions, a distinction he shares only with O'Neill and Miller.
However, Hanley’s name did not progress to the final three. Keighran secured his place in the shortlist after being named in the top‑five for the final third of the season, underscoring his sustained impact as the campaign drew to a close.
Brad O'Neill, a combative hooker known for his relentless work rate, entered the conversation early and has already been recognised as the Rugby League Writers and Broadcasters Association (RLWBA) Player of the Year. His contributions helped Wigan Warriors clinch the League Leaders’ Shield, capture the Challenge Cup, and dominate the first 80 minutes of the Grand Final. At 24 years old, O'Neill blends hard‑hitting defence, precise passing and remarkable durability, making him an indispensable component of Matt Peet’s treble‑chasing side.
Australian full‑back Lachie Miller has been a Man of Steel contender from the very start of the season. He topped the panel’s first vote after the opening nine rounds, thanks to his explosive running, high‑energy tackling and ability to turn defence into attack. Miller’s statistics are eye‑catching – he has recorded a league‑leading 166 tackle busts this term, and his pace and footwork have repeatedly broken open opposition lines, providing Leeds with a constant offensive threat.
Adam Keighran finished the regular season with an impressive 16 tries and 107 goals. Beyond his scoring prowess, he has earned plaudits for his hard‑hitting defensive work and his seamless partnership with prolific winger Zach Eckersley, who has been a frequent recipient of Keighran’s accurate kicking. Keighran’s all‑round contributions have cemented his reputation as a versatile and reliable performer for the Warriors.
The Super League play‑offs are currently in full swing, broadcast live on Sky Sports and set to continue through to the Grand Final at Old Trafford on 3 October. The upcoming fixtures include: - Friday 18 September: Wakefield Trinity 26‑16 Leigh Leopards - Saturday 19 September: Warrington Wolves 35‑12 Hull KR - Semi‑Final 1 – Friday 25 September: Leeds Rhinos vs Warrington Wolves, 8 pm KO on Sky Sports - Semi‑Final 2 – Saturday 26 September: Wigan Warriors vs Wakefield Trinity, 5.30 pm KO on Sky Sports These matches will determine which of the shortlisted players ultimately lifts the coveted Man of Steel trophy. While the shortlist is now fixed, the performances in the remaining play‑off games will be crucial in shaping the final verdict. O'Neill’s leadership in the forward pack, Miller’s dazzling back‑line exploits, and Keighran’s dual threat with the ball and the boot will all be under intense scrutiny as the season reaches its climax.
In summary, the 2026 Man of Steel shortlist reflects a blend of seasoned experience and emerging talent. Brad O'Neill’s gritty determination, Adam Keighran’s balanced attacking and defensive skill set, and Lachie Miller’s electrifying pace and try‑scoring ability have each earned them a place among the elite three. As the play‑offs unfold, fans and pundits alike will be watching closely to see which of these three will ultimately be crowned the league’s most outstanding player for the year.