Coaches on the Hot Seat as NRL Season Winds Down

With just five rounds remaining in the 2025 NRL regular season, the focus has shifted to the coaches whose teams have struggled to meet their preseason billing. These coaches now find themselves on the hot seat, with their futures hanging in the balance.

One such coach is Shane Flanagan of the Dragons, who has managed to keep his team competitive despite a major rebuild. However, questions remain over his long-term role, as he is set to come off-contract at the end of 2026. The Sharks' Craig Fitzgibbon, too, has failed to guide his team past the preliminary final despite having a squad capable of more, and his job security could be in jeopardy if a trophy doesn't make it to the Shire soon.

Elsewhere, Brisbane's Michael Maguire has weathered a media storm earlier in the season, but his side's performance will need to improve if they are to secure a top-four finish and avoid reigniting the conversation about his job security. Similarly, the Tigers' Benji Marshall has faced intense scrutiny due to his team's poor results, though he may be granted some grace given the difficult situation he inherited.

At the Sea Eagles, Des Seibold's position appears to be on shaky ground, with the pressure reaching a boiling point after a recent embarrassing loss. The Knights' Adam O'Brien and the Titans' Des Hasler also find themselves in precarious positions, with their futures potentially hinging on a strong finish to the season.

As the NRL season reaches its business end, these coaches will be under immense pressure to turn their teams' fortunes around and secure their positions for 2026 and beyond.