After last season’s play-off final defeat, can Rob Baxter’s men go one better this year?
After finishing second bottom in the 2024-25 season, Exeter Chiefs are back in the Gallagher PREM play-offs last season where they were defeated by Northampton Saints in the final. Long-time head coach Rob Baxter has successfully rebuilt his squad, and – with new investment from the owners of Premier League football club Bournemouth – it would be unwise to bet against the former European champions reaching the top four again this year.
Below we outline Exeter’s outlook before the new season kicks off on Friday 25th September. Between now and the big beginning, The world of rugby will give our verdict on each PREM and URC page – come back to the page for more.
Exeter Chiefs discussion
So close. While the defeat to Northampton at the Allianz Stadium leaves a sour taste, Chiefs can take solace from a good run to the final.
The big loss from last season is Wallabies center Len Ikitau, whose place will be contested by Kiwi recruit Dallas McLeod and former Bath player Will Butt. ChristmasHis late season form means he will be missed more than when the club let him go to Sale due to injury and indifferent performances.
Buoyed by the takeover of The Black Knight, a sense of optimism hangs in the air. The most encouraging compared to last season was the settled half-back duo Stephen Varney and Harvey Skinner. If they continue to mesh well, Chiefs could be flying high towards the top of the table.
Sandy Park has always been a tough task for visiting teams. So if Exeter can pick up regular points on their travels, they will be set for another title shot.
A key player
You can’t look at the past Henry Slade. He has just been rewarded with another improved England contract and the center is worth its weight in gold for Rob Baxter. Slade’s experience has been vital while most of the team has been rebuilt around him, and his spot-kick is now a lethal asset. The trademark flourishes of the touch-finder are also a real swing.
Veteran center Henry Slade continues to dominate the Exeter Chiefs midfield (Bob Bradford – CameraSport via Getty Images)
One to watch
Kane James has had a summer to remember, winning his first Wales cap during the competition Nations Championship in Argentina. We’re told that a strong back row is one to avoid in training because when he hits you, you stay hit. The 21-year-old faces plenty of competition, with Ethan Roots, Greg Fisilau and Ross Vincent all in the mix, but Baxter is adept at getting his best players on the park. James could be a breakout star in PREM if given the chance to flourish.
Trainer box
After a few years of upheaval, things settled down. DoR Baxter is supported by Dave Walder (attack), Haydn Thomas (defence) and Ross McMillan (forward). James Wilson (support backs) and Glen Townson (support forwards) complete the line-up.
Exeter Chiefs Forecast for 2026-27
You wouldn’t bet on the Chiefs sneaking into the playoffs again.
Exeter Chiefs 2026-27 quotas
10-1
Vital statistics
Exeter conceded the fewest line breaks (6.7), tries (three) and points (21) per PREM match last season.
Former Bath center Will Butt arrives at Sandy Park to fill the hole left by the departure of Wallabies star Len Ikitau (Bob Bradford – CameraSport via Getty Images)
Exeter Chiefs signings
- Dallas McLeod (Crusaders)
- Nika Abuladze (Montpellier)
- Harry Wilson (Saracens)
- Obinna Nkwocha (Worcester Warriors)
- Sam Wolstenholme (Bristol Bears)
- Sam Harris (bath rugby)
- Will Butt (bath rugby)
- Jake Murray (Harlequins)
- Archie McArthur (Gloucester)
Exeter Chiefs ddepartures
- Len Ikitau (Brumbies)
- Scott Sio (Cardiff)
- Rusi Tuima (Newcastle Red Bulls)
- Will Rigg (Newcastle Red Bulls)
- Martin Moloney (Ulster)
- Christ Tshiunza (Sale Sharks)
- Charlie Chapman (Worcester Warriors)
- Thomas Tua (Black Rams)
- Dan John (Ospreys)
- Charlie Bell (Richmond)
- Alfie Bell (Rotherham)
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