For the purpose of this list, we've only considered players who are known primarily as a five-eighth.
Of course, there is big cross-over potential with halfbacks, however, we've stuck with players most recently recognised in the six jersey.
Top TEN best fullbacks in the NRL
Top TEN best wingers in the NRL
Top TEN best centres in the NRL
Top TEN best five-eighths in the NRL
Top TEN best second-rowers in the NRL
7. Dylan Brown
I'd argue that Dylan Brown contributed more in the Eels incredible run to a top-four finish than his much more high profiled halves partner. He was absolutely incredible in 2020 and improved on his brilliant 2019. I very much look forward to seeing what he can produce in 2022.
Across his 18 appearances for the Eels he scored four tries, forced 11 dropouts, laid on five try assists and three line-break assists as well as making 10 line breaks himself. He also ran for over 115 metres per game and kicked for almost 110. I'd expect all of those stats to improve in his third full season in the top grade.
His defence improved dramatically this season, and another pre-season under Brad Arthur, as well as another year maturing, will combine to help that improve again. Another brilliant season will see him in the talk for rep honours.
Call me bias but swap Wighton and Keary around and your pretty spot on.
Youโre biased. Wighton is still mostly only going to damage opposition teams , if they donโt tackle well. As heโs mostly just a running 5/8th.