Wigan have strengthened, bringing in the likes of ex-Leeds Rhinos captain Kruise Leeming and it will take a good team to prevent them collecting a second successive league leaders’ shield. They flexed their muscles in a 40-0 warm-up win at Hull FC last week, but Leeds Rhinos have also had a positive pre-season and Warrington Wolves are confident of getting back among the title challengers under new coach Sam Burgess.
St Helens are fully motivated after their four-year title reign ended in 2023 and Catalans Dragons will be determined to go one better than finishing as league and Grand Final runners-up last year. Leigh Leopards and Hull KR both upset the odds in the previous season and will be looking to do the same again, but early predictions are it could be a tough campaign for Huddersfield Giants, Hull FC, Salford Red Devils, Castleford Tigers and promoted London Broncos. Here’s how the 2024 table is predicted to finish, according to the latest odds.
7. Hull KR
Fourth last time, but 16/1 to lift the league leaders' shield. Pictured: Elliot Minchella. Photo: Simon Wilkinson/SWpix.com
8. Huddersfield Giants
Giant outsiders for top spot, at 25/1. Pictured: Kevin Naiqama . Photo: Simon Wilkinson/SWpix.com
9. Hull FC
It could be another long year for the black and whites. They are 33/1 to finish top. Pictured: Franklin Pele and Herman Essesse. Photo: Simon Wilkinson/SWpix.com
10. Salford Red Devils
A 50/1 long shot to finish top of the pile. Pictured: Nene Macdonald Photo: Simon Wilkinson/SWpix.com
11. Castleford Tigers
Second from bottom last year and predicted to do no better this time, despite a new coach and overhauled squad. 66/1 to finish top. Pictured: Nixon Putt. Photo: Simon Wilkinson/SWpix.com
12. London Broncos
Promotion last year was a shock and they are red hot favourites for the wooden spoon. 150/1 for first place. Pictured: Sadiq Adebiyi. Photo: Simon Wilkinson/SWpix.com