The Raiders were the 2025 minor premiers — and now the question is simple: was that the ceiling… or the new standard? In this episode of our 17-part 2026 NRL mini-series, Ryan breaks down how Canberra got to 1st (19 wins) and why 2026 might be the year they turn “regular season bullies” into the real deal when it matters.

We get into:

• What made the Raiders so hard to play against in 2025 (and what still worries us)
• Recruitment & depth moves: Ethan Sanders, Myles Martin, Savelio Tamale added, plus Josh Papali’i locked in for 2026
• 2026 Strength of Schedule: SOS rank 14 (easier), and the teams they play twice (including Sharks, Bulldogs, Panthers, Storm, Rabbitohs)
• The key mid-year stretch Ricky has circled before Origin bites
• Ladder prediction: Ryan’s call has Canberra finishing 4th — but “receipts will be kept.”

Raiders fans — Cap or Fact: 2025 proved you’re a top-4 lock… or 2026 exposes it? Drop your ladder spot in the comments. 🟢⚪️💬