⏪ John Radel: 2026 Year in Review

John Radel announced his arrival in first grade with South Sydney in 2026, finishing his debut season with four NRL appearances, two tries and a powerful middle-forward footprint.

Radel's season numbers told the story of a prop who made every opportunity count. He ran for 292 metres at 73 metres a game, made 86 tackles at 97.73% efficiency, and added one line break and three tackle breaks. Across 132 minutes, his work was built around direct carries, strong contact and reliable defensive effort, while two tries gave the attack a finishing edge close to the line.

The Rabbitohs signed Radel in September 2025 on a two-year deal: an NSWRL contract for 2026 and a move to an NRL supplementary contract in 2027. He arrived from the Mackay Cutters, where he was named the Cutters' Queensland Cup Player of the Year in 2024, after coming through Wynnum-Manly and representing Queensland Schoolboys.

His debut came off the interchange against the Brisbane Broncos in round 15. In 29 minutes he scored a try, ran for 88 metres and made 14 tackles in a 48-6 win.

After a 17-minute stint against the Canberra Raiders in round 20, Radel had a bigger role against the Melbourne Storm a week later. Playing in the second row, he scored his second try, made a line break, ran for 82 metres and made 26 tackles in a 28-26 win.

In round 22 he started at prop against the Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks. He played 45 minutes, ran for 86 metres and made 33 tackles.

Across his four games, Radel averaged 73 running metres and made 86 tackles at 97.73% efficiency. He also performed strongly in NSW Cup, finishing the year with the Player of the Year Award.

With an NRL supplementary contract ahead in 2027, Radel has made a strong start to his career with the Club and one to watch for next season.