The 2026 Steve Prescott MBE Man of Steel shortlist has now been announced, featuring a trio of standout performers: Wigan Warriors’ dynamic duo Brad O'Neill and Adam Keighran, together with Leeds Rhinos’ electrifying full‑back Lachie Miller. The selection was the result of a rigorous evaluation process conducted by a panel composed entirely of former Man of Steel winners – Ellery Hanley, Sam Tomkins, James Roby, Joe Lydon and Paul Sculthorpe – who were tasked with trimming an initial list of twelve candidates down to the final three nominees. The panel’s methodology was systematic and transparent. Over the course of the season they convened three times, each meeting covering a distinct block of fixtures: rounds 1‑9, rounds 10‑18, and rounds 19‑27.
After each segment they produced a "top five" ranking based on the performances observed during that period. By the end of the campaign, a consistent group of players had appeared in the top‑five lists across the three phases. Those players were 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 an outstanding season, the reigning Man of Steel, Connor, did not make the final three‑man shortlist. Connor’s campaign for Leeds Rhinos was remarkable, highlighted by an astonishing 43 assists – nearly twice as many as any other playmaker in the league – yet the panel’s criteria extended beyond pure statistical output to include impact in crucial moments, consistency, and overall contribution to team success. Ellery Hanley, who also served on the judging panel, managed to secure a place in the top‑five on two separate occasions, a feat matched only by O'Neill and Miller. Nevertheless, Hanley fell short of the final trio, underscoring the highly competitive nature of the award.
Keighran earned his spot by appearing in the top‑five during the final third of the season, reflecting a strong finish to his campaign. Brad O'Neill, the hard‑hitting hooker for Wigan, entered the shortlist bolstered by his recent accolade as the Rugby League Writers and Broadcasters Association (RLWBA) Player of the Year.
O'Neill has been instrumental in Wigan’s pursuit of a historic treble, contributing to the club’s capture of the League Leaders’ Shield, the Challenge Cup, and a commanding performance within the first 80 minutes of the Grand Final. At just 24 years old, his combination of aggressive tackling, precise distribution and remarkable durability has cemented his status as a cornerstone of Matt Peet’s side.
Lachie Miller, the Australian full‑back representing Leeds Rhinos, has been a constant presence in the Man of Steel conversation since the season’s opening weeks. He topped the panel’s first voting round after the initial nine fixtures, thanks to a blend of attacking flair and defensive resilience.
Miller’s statistics are eye‑catching: he has recorded a league‑leading 166 tackle busts this term, and his explosive running has repeatedly turned matches in Leeds’ favour, especially during periods when the Rhinos held the league‑lead. Adam Keighran, also of Wigan, concluded the regular season with an impressive tally of 16 tries and 107 goals.
Beyond his scoring prowess, Keighrin has earned widespread praise for his physical defensive work and his seamless partnership with prolific winger Zach Eckersley, which has added a new dimension to Wigan’s attacking options. The Super League playoffs are now in full swing, broadcast live on Sky Sports, and will culminate with 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‑finals are scheduled as follows: Leeds Rhinos face Warrington Wolves on Friday, September 25 at 8 pm, and Wigan Warriors meet Wakefield Trinity on Saturday, September 26 at 5:30 pm, both on Sky Sports.
These high‑stakes matches will further shape the narrative around the Man of Steel contenders, as each player strives to leave an indelible mark on the season’s climax. In summary, the final three‑man shortlist – O'Neill, Keighran and Miller – reflects a blend of defensive grit, playmaking vision and attacking brilliance. Their performances have not only propelled their respective clubs toward silverware but have also captured the imagination of fans and pundits alike, setting the stage for an exciting showdown as the playoffs progress toward the ultimate showdown at Old Trafford.