North Queensland Cowboys 2025 season preview
2024 recap
After a disappointing 2023 campaign, the Cowboys bounced back impressively last year, securing a fifth-placed finish and making it to week two of the finals.
A 26-18 loss to the Sharks ended their year on a low note, but there were plenty of positives to take, and they look well-placed for another crack at the top eight in 2025.
2024 position: 5th (Lost 26-18 to Cronulla Sharks in week two of finals)
Key signings
John Bateman (Wests Tigers), Karl Lawton (Manly Sea Eagles), Kai O’Donnell (Leigh Leopards) Jaxson Paulo (Manly Sea Eagles)
Key departures
Kyle Feldt (St Helens), Kulikefu Finefeuiaki (Dolphins), Jack Gosiewski (Brisbane Broncos), Valentine Holmes (St George Illawarra Dragons), D’Jazirhae Pua’avase (Manly Sea Eagles), Jamayne Taunoa-Brown (Retired), Chad Townsend (Sydney Roosters)
Players to watch
Jaxson Paulo starts 2025 at his fourth club in six seasons. The 25 year-old winger never nailed down a starting spot at the Rabbitohs, Roosters or Manly, but with club legend Kyle Feldt now gone, there’s a chance for him to cement himself in the starting XIII in Townsville.
John Bateman is another new arrival with a point to prove. The former Raider was superb in the nation’s capital, but his career has stalled over the past few seasons during spells with Wigan, Wests Tigers and Warrington. Still only 31, he’s got plenty left in the tank, and a move up north could be the spark he needs to reignite his career.
Young gun
Mason Kira will be part of the club’s full-time NRL squad in 2025, with the 19 year-old pushing for a first grade debut this year. Equally comfortable in the second row or at lock, the Queensland under 19s representative is an aggressive forward with an imposing 100+ kg frame.
Our prediction – 6th
I’m expecting a similar season to 2024 for the Cowboys, with a comfortable finals finish. I can’t see them pushing much further than that and making a Grand Final, but anything less than the top eight would be a surprise.
