AI predicts 2025 Super League Young Player of the Year winner and candidates with Leeds Rhinos and Hull FC men named

Wigan Warriors’ Junior Nsemba was the deserved winner of the 2024 Super League Player of the Year award. The back-rower emerged as one of the most promising players across the world of rugby league with his performances helping the club to an historic quadruple.

There were other candidates for the award but in truth, Nsemba being recognised was seen as something of a given as he continues to develop into a player Warriors fans can pin their hopes on for years to come.

George Delaney of St Helens and Warrington Wolves’ Matty Nicholson were also shortlisted for the award, but Delaney will be the only one of the two playing in Super League next season after Nicholson’s off-season switch to the NRL. According to AI, though, Delaney remains one of the favourites to win the award in 2025, with Chat GPT naming him as a potential candidate.

Nsemba is also eligible to win the award once more, given he won’t turn 21 until June next year, while the AI platform sees a host of other potential winners across Super League.

We asked Chat GPT to predict five candidates and the winner of the Super League Young Player of the Year award in 2025 and here’s what it said:

Here are five predicted candidates for the 2025 Super League Young Player of the Year award, all aged 21 or under by the start of the season, along with a potential winner based on form, talent, and team opportunities:

Predicted Candidates:

Junior Nsemba (Wigan Warriors)

Position: Second-row

Nsemba is already a standout young forward for Wigan, showing immense power, work rate, and a knack for scoring tries. His physical presence and defensive contributions are pivotal in the Warriors’ pack. With more experience in 2025, he could dominate games regularly and is a strong contender for this award.

George Delaney (St Helens)

Position: Prop

Delaney has gained recognition for his maturity and performances in the St Helens forward pack, despite his young age. He has benefitted from injuries within the squad, earning valuable game time, and could be a leader in their forward rotation by 2025.

Jack Sinfield (Leeds Rhinos)

Position: Halfback

Sinfield, the son of Leeds legend Kevin Sinfield, has shown flashes of potential with strong game management, tactical kicking, and composure. With further development in 2025, he could establish himself as Leeds’ first-choice halfback, earning plaudits for guiding his team in key matches.

Lewis Martin (Hull FC)

Position: Winger

Martin has impressed with his pace, finishing ability, and ability to find space. If Hull FC can provide quality opportunities for him in attack, Martin could enjoy a breakout season, scoring regularly and making a name for himself in Super League.

Zach Eckersley (Wigan Warriors)

Position: Centre

Eckersley is another emerging talent for Wigan, offering strong defensive performances and the ability to break through defensive lines. He will likely get more game time in 2025, giving him the chance to showcase his potential as one of Super League’s best young centres.

Predicted Winner: Junior Nsemba (Wigan Warriors)

Junior Nsemba is the standout candidate due to his physicality, proven ability to perform at the Super League level, and the strong environment at Wigan Warriors that consistently develops young talent. His ability to influence games in attack and defence, combined with increased experience, positions him as a likely Young Player of the Year winner for 2025.