The NRL SuperCoach 2026 season is rapidly approaching, and savvy coaches know that success hinges on selecting the right players from jump.
A big part of building a competitive squad requires careful consideration of which cheapies and cash cows will deliver the best value.
These bargain buys are essential for freeing up salary cap space to invest in premium superstars who can rack up elite points week after week.
Finding players who combine job security, talent, and rock-bottom pricing is crucial for Round 1 team construction.
That’s why for this week’s edition of our NRL SuperCoach tips and picks, we’ve identified the best cash cows currently on the market ahead of Round 1.
NRL SuperCoach 2026 – Round 1 Tips and Picks (Cash Cows)
Jonah Pezet - $235,600 (Five-Eighth)
The former Storm prodigy has secured the Eels' five-eighth role following Dylan Brown's departure.
Pezet brings Melbourne's championship pedigree to Parramatta with guaranteed job security and the experience to deliver immediately.
Expect averages between 45-55 points with significant upside potential. His position is particularly valuable given the weak five-eighth options in SuperCoach 2026.
Siale Faeamani - $201,400 (Centre/Wing)
With Brian Kelly and Alofiana Khan-Pereira's exits creating opportunities at the Titans, Faeamani has claimed his spot in the backline.
His Brian To'o-style attacking game translates perfectly to SuperCoach scoring, evidenced by his 58-point trial performance featuring multiple runs and tackle breaks.
The centre/wing position requires seven roster spots, making budget options like Faeamani absolutely critical.
Setu Tu - $201,400 (Centre/Wing)
Dragons’ rookie Tu offers similar value to Faeamani with his try-scoring prowess (13 tries in 14 NSW Cup games last season) and tackle-breaking ability.
Despite competition from Tyrell Sloan and David Fale, Tu has secured Round 1 selection and represents excellent value at minimum pricing.
Daniel Atkinson - $235,600 (Halfback)
The experienced halfback edges out fellow value halfback Ethan Sanders due to superior job security.
While Sanders might claim goal-kicking duties in a stronger Raiders outfit, Atkinson's first-grade experience makes him the safer Round 1 selection.
Both players project 45+ averages, but Atkinson's starting position appears more secure against potential challenges from rising star Coby Black.
Heamasi Makasini - $235,600 (Centre/Wing)
The most exciting budget prospect after dazzling trial performances, Makasini possesses genuine keeper potential with his electric try-scoring ability.
Job security remains questionable with Jeral Skelton providing competition, but his attacking weapons could deliver cheapie-of-the-year honours if given consistent opportunities.
Jesse Colquhoun - $332,500 (Second Row/Front Row)
The reliable Sharks forward inherits Cam McInnes' starting lock role for at least the opening two months.
Colquhoun offers dual position eligibility and consistent base statistics, projecting 49+ averages based on previous starting appearances.
While lacking attacking flair, his guaranteed minutes and role security make him a solid foundation piece.
Ativalu Lisati - $269,400 (Second Row)
Lisati was tracking for must-have status before losing ground for Katoa's vacant edge role.
If selected at lock, he offers 60+ scoring potential, though Trent Loiero's eventual return could impact minutes.
His exceptional points-per-minute rate from limited NRL appearances suggests significant upside if given consistent opportunities.
Lisati along with the rest of these NRL SuperCoach 2026 budget selections provide the foundation for competitive team building, allowing investment in premium talent while maintaining salary cap flexibility throughout the season.