2025 MLR Players to Watch: The Rising Stars and Veterans Who Will Dominate This Season
Major League Rugby (MLR) has become a cornerstone for professional rugby in North America, attracting top talent from around the globe while cultivating homegrown stars. The 2025 season is shaping up to be one of the most exciting yet, with new players entering the league and established stars continuing to raise the bar. From game-changing veterans to promising rookies, here are the players to watch this season as they shape the future of MLR.
1. Wilton Rebolo – Prop/Hooker, Houston Sabercats
A fan favorite in NY, a consistent performer for Western Force and Brazilian International, Wilton Rebolo remains one of the league’s premier props. Known for his exceptional scrummaging ability and work rate around the field, Rebolo’s leadership on the field is unmatched. As the Houston aim to make a deep playoff run in 2025, Rebolo’s ability to anchor the scrum and contribute in open play will be crucial. His vision and rugby IQ make him a player opposing teams must plan around.
2. Christian Dyer – Center/Wing, RFCLA
After a breakout season in 2024, Christian Dyer is poised to solidify himself as one of MLR’s most electrifying backs. His versatility allows him to play both center and wing, where his speed, agility, and defensive prowess shine. Dyer’s knack for finding gaps in the defense and his relentless work rate make him a key weapon for the RFCLA as they look to build on their recent success.
3. Nate Augspurger – Wing, Chicago Hounds
A staple of the San Diego Legion and a veteran of the U.S. national team, Nate Augspurger continues to be a dynamic force in MLR. His quick decision-making, precision passing, and ability to exploit defensive weaknesses make him a standout wing. As one of the league’s most experienced players, Augspurger also serves as a mentor to younger teammates, further solidifying his impact on and off the field.
4. Jayson Potroz – Fly-Half, New England Free Jacks
Jayson Potroz has quickly established himself as a dependable and creative playmaker in MLR. Renowned for his tactical kicking, sharp decision-making, and composure under pressure, Potroz is a key player for New England in 2025. His ability to manage the game and create scoring opportunities will be instrumental in the team’s pursuit of success this season.
5. Paul Lasike – Center, Utah Warriors
A veteran back with international experience for the Eagles, Paul Lasike remains a threat every time he touches the ball. Despite his years in the game, Lasike’s explosive pace and ability to finish from anywhere on the field are still as potent as ever. The Utah Warriors will rely on his experience and finishing prowess to compete in a tough Western Conference.
6. Lucas Rumball – Flanker, Chicago Hounds
Lucas Rumball’s relentless work ethic and tenacity make him one of the most feared flankers in MLR. A tackling machine and a menace at the breakdown, Rumball is the epitome of a player who leads by example. His physicality and engine ensure he’s always at the heart of the action, making him a cornerstone of the Chicago’s forward pack.
7. Conor McManus – Scrumhalf, Anthem RFC
Conor McManus is set to make an impact as scrum half for Anthem RFC. Known for his lightning-fast decision-making and exceptional passing accuracy, McManus brings a dynamic element to the team’s play. His ability to control the tempo of the game, combined with his sharp tactical kicking and ability to create scoring opportunities, makes him a key player to watch this season. With his experience and rugby IQ, McManus will be pivotal in orchestrating Anthem RFC’s attack, providing quick ball to his backs, and exploiting defensive gaps. His leadership on the field will be essential for Anthem as they push for a playoff spot in the competitive MLR landscape.
8. Marcel Brache – Fullback/Center, San Diego Legion
In their resurgence after a challenging start as an expansion team, the Dallas Jackals have found a leader in Marcel Brache. The South African-born U.S. international brings versatility and composure to the backline. Whether playing at fullback or center, Brache’s tactical awareness and defensive stability provide a solid foundation for the team to build upon in 2025.
9. Jamason Fa’anana-Schultz – #8, Old Glory DC
Known for his relentless work rate and aggressive style of play, Jama has become a standout in the breakdown, consistently winning turnovers and disrupting opposition attacks. His physicality in contact and ability to carry the ball over the gain line make him a constant threat on both sides of the ball. Jama’s high motor and leadership qualities will be crucial for Old Glory as they look to make a push in the Eastern Conference. With his all-around contributions, expect him to be at the heart of Old Glory’s forward pack, providing the energy and intensity needed to compete at the highest level.
10. Tavite Lopeti – Center, San Diego Legion
Tavite Lopeti’s rise in MLR has been meteoric, and 2025 is shaping up to be his breakout year. The young center has shown flashes of brilliance with his powerful carries and defensive tenacity. Paired with experienced teammates, Lopeti is poised to become one of the league’s top midfielders, solidifying San Diego’s status as perennial contenders.
11. Connor Burns – Fullback, Miami Sharks
Connor Burns is set to make his mark as fullback for the Miami Sharks. Known for his tactical kicking, sharp decision-making, and ability to launch counter-attacks from deep, Burns is a key asset to Miami’s backline. His vision and positioning under the high ball are exceptional, allowing him to read the game and create opportunities from the back. Burns’ ability to cover large areas of the field and support the attack will be crucial as the Sharks look to build momentum in the competitive MLR season. With his calmness under pressure and ability to handle crucial moments, Burns will play a pivotal role in guiding Miami’s defensive and attacking strategies. His leadership and versatility make him a player to watch as the Sharks aim for success in 2025.
12. Jeremy Misailegalu – Wing, Houston Sabercats
The Missile is built like a brick shit house and known for his explosive speed, strong running lines, and ability to finish in tight spaces, Misailegalu is a constant threat to opposition defenses. His physicality and ability to break tackles make him a handful in one-on-one situations, while his try-scoring ability will be crucial for Houston’s attacking ambitions. Misailegalu’s versatility also allows him to contribute both in attack and defense, providing balance to the Sabercats’ game plan. With his powerful presence on the wing, he will be a key figure in Houston’s bid to challenge for the top spots in the MLR, making him a player to keep a close eye on throughout the season.
13. Ed Fidow – Wing, NOLA Gold
Known for his explosive pace, power, and ability to break tackles, Fidow is a dynamic force on the wing, capable of changing the game in a single run. His physicality in contact, combined with his sharp footwork and try-scoring ability, make him a constant threat to opposition defenses. As one of the top finishers in the league, Fidow has an uncanny ability to capitalize on half-chances and turn them into tries. In 2025, he will be a key player for NOLA Gold, using his speed and strength to stretch defenses and provide critical attacking options. Expect Fidow to be a major factor in NOLA’s offensive strategies, with his ability to break through defensive lines and finish under pressure being essential to the team’s success.
14. Jade Stighling – Wing, Seattle Seawolves
Jade Stighling’s combination of speed and power makes him a constant threat on the wing. The South African’s ability to finish in tight spaces and create opportunities from nothing adds a dynamic edge to the Seawolves’ attack. Stighling’s performances in 2025 could be the difference-maker in close matches.
15. Sione Mahe – Fly-Half, Utah Warriors
Caleb Makene’s versatility and rugby intelligence make him a key player for the Utah Warriors. Operating as a playmaking fly-half, Mahe’s skill set keeps opponents guessing. His ability to read the game and execute under pressure makes him one of the most exciting players to watch this season. His type of play can sustain the Warriors offenses through the entire season.
16. Joe Johnston – Flanker, New England Free Jacks
Joe Johnston’s tireless energy and ability to win turnovers have cemented his place as a standout flanker in MLR. His work at the breakdown and in open play provides the Free Jacks with a competitive edge. Johnston’s leadership and tenacity will be vital as New England aims to repeat their 2024 success.
17. AJ Alatimu – Fly-Half, Houston Sabercats
AJ Alatimu is set to be a key player for the Houston Sabercats as fly-half. Known for his exceptional kicking game, both from the tee and in open play, Alatimu brings a level of composure and strategic vision to the team. His ability to manage the tempo of the game, along with his flair for creating scoring opportunities, makes him an invaluable asset. Whether it’s through his precise tactical kicks, clever passes, or leadership in directing the attack, Alatimu’s role will be crucial in guiding the Sabercats’ offensive game plan. His experience and rugby intelligence allow him to read defenses well and make quick, impactful decisions under pressure. As Houston looks to make a deep playoff push, Alatimu’s leadership and influence at fly-half will be a major factor in their success throughout the season.
The Big Guy’s Final Thoughts
The 2025 MLR season is packed with talent, from experienced internationals to rising stars. These players are not only shaping their teams’ fortunes but also contributing to the growth and popularity of rugby in North America. As the league continues to evolve, the performances of these standout players will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in defining the season. Whether you’re a seasoned rugby fan or new to the sport, these athletes are guaranteed to deliver thrilling moments on the field. So, buckle up for another action-packed MLR season and keep an eye on these stars as they leave their mark on the game.
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