The latest Steve Prescott MBE Man of Steel shortlist for the 2026 season has been announced, and it features a trio of standout performers: Brad O'Neill and Adam Keighran from the Wigan Warriors, together with Lachie Miller of the Leeds Rhinos. This elite selection follows a rigorous review process carried out by a distinguished panel of five former Man of Steel recipients – Ellery Hanley, Sam Tomkins, James Roby, Joe Lydon and Paul Sculthorpe – who trimmed an initial pool of twelve candidates down to the final three nominees. The evaluation was conducted in three distinct phases, mirroring the structure of the Super League campaign. The panel convened after rounds 1‑9, then again after rounds 10‑18, and finally after rounds 19‑27, each time compiling a "top‑five" list for that segment of the season.
Over the course of the three reviews, the following players appeared in the top‑five at least once: Brad O'Neill, Adam Keighran, Lachie Miller, Jake Connor, Umyla Hanley, Jez Litten, Tyrone May, Brodie Croft, Daryl Clark, Ash Handley, Bevan French and Jai Field. Despite a spectacular year for Leeds Rhinos, reigning Man of Steel Connor did not make the ultimate shortlist. His season was highlighted by an astonishing 43 assists – nearly double the output of any other playmaker in the competition – underscoring his creative influence even if the award eluded him.
Ellery Hanley, who also serves on the judging panel, managed to place himself in the top‑five on two separate occasions, a feat matched only by O'Neill and Miller. Nevertheless, his name did not appear among the final three. Keighran secured his spot by featuring in the panel’s top‑five during the final third of the campaign, demonstrating consistent performance when it mattered most.
Brad O'Neill, the combative hooker from Wigan, entered the shortlist with considerable momentum. He had already been honoured as the Rugby League Writers and Broadcasters Association (RLWBA) Player of the Year, a testament to his pivotal role in Wigan’s treble‑winning run, which included the League Leaders’ Shield, the Challenge Cup and a dominant display in the Grand Final.
At just 24, O'Neill’s reputation is built on relentless tackling, razor‑sharp passing, and an impressive durability that has made him a cornerstone of Matt Peet’s side as they chase historic success. Australian full‑back Lachie Miller has been a constant presence in the Man of Steel conversation since the opening weeks of the season.
He topped the panel’s first voting round after the initial nine matches, thanks to his explosive running, defensive tenacity and an eye‑catching 166 tackle busts – the highest total recorded by any player this term. Miller’s ability to break the line and create scoring opportunities has lit up numerous contests for the Leeds Rhinos, who spent much of the season at the top of the league table.
Adam Keighran capped off the regular season with a prolific 16 tries and 107 goals, showcasing his dual threat as both a finisher and a reliable goal‑kicker. Beyond his offensive numbers, Keighran earned widespread praise for his hard‑hitting defensive work and the seamless partnership he forged with prolific winger Zach Eckersley, whose own try‑scoring exploits complemented Keighran’s contributions. The Super League playoffs are now in full swing, with live coverage on Sky Sports continuing through to the Grand Final at Old Trafford on October 3. Recent results include Wakefield Trinity’s 26‑16 victory over Leigh Leopards on September 18 and Warrington Wolves’ 35‑12 demolition of Hull KR on September 19.
The semi‑final fixtures are set as follows: Leeds Rhinos will face Warrington Wolves on Friday, September 25 at 8 pm, while Wigan Warriors take on Wakefield Trinity on Saturday, September 26 at 5.30 pm, both matches broadcast live on Sky Sports. As the playoffs progress, the three shortlisted players – O'Neill, Keighran and Miller – remain under the spotlight, each hoping to add the coveted Man of Steel trophy to their individual accolades and to further cement their clubs’ quests for silverware. Their performances in the decisive matches will likely shape the final voting, making the concluding weeks of the season a compelling narrative for fans and pundits alike.