Exeter Chiefs: Gallagher PREM 2026-27 season preview

# Overview

# Form and context After finishing second bottom in 2024-25, Exeter rebounded to reach last season's final. The squad is more settled now, and the half-back pairing of Stephen Varney and Harvey Skinner was a major positive. Defensively the Chiefs were outstanding last season: they conceded the fewest line breaks (6.7), tries (three) and points (21) per Premiership match.

# What changed in the off-season Key arrivals include Dallas McLeod (Crusaders), Nika Abuladze (Montpellier), Will Butt (Bath), Sam Wolstenholme (Bristol Bears), Sam Harris (Bath Rugby), Jake Murray (Harlequins), Archie McArthur (Gloucester), Obinna Nkwocha (Worcester Warriors) and Henry signings listed in the source. Major departures include Wallabies centre Len Ikitau (Brumbies), Christ Tshiunza (Sale Sharks), Scott Sio (Cardiff) and several others. The centre vacancy left by Ikitau will be contested by Dallas McLeod and Will Butt.

# Squad balance and selection issues Experience sits at the centre of Exeter's rebuild. Henry Slade remains the linchpin: his playmaking and goal-kicking add control and scoreboard value. The back-row competition includes Kane James, Ethan Roots, Greg Fisilau and Ross Vintcent. Kane James earned his first Wales cap in the Nations Championship and could emerge as a breakout player if given consistent minutes.

# Coaching and structure Rob Baxter is supported by Dave Walder (attack), Haydn Thomas (defence) and Ross McMillan (forwards). James Wilson and Glen Townson fill assistant roles for backs and forwards. That coaching mix suggests continuity after previous years of upheaval.

# Strengths and vulnerabilities

• Defence: statistically the Premiership's best in several key categories last season.
• Half-back combination: Varney and Skinner provided a settled platform.
• Experience through Henry Slade's leadership and goal-kicking.

• Depth in some positions: competition exists, but injuries or loss of form could test options.

# Prediction and odds

# Practical takeaways for the early season

• Monitor midfield selection: McLeod and Will Butt need to replace the attacking presence of Len Ikitau.
• Keep an eye on Kane James for potential breakout performances in the back row.

# Bottom line Exeter Chiefs have rebuilt effectively and strengthened their squad depth. With an experienced core led by Henry Slade, an excellent defensive record to build on, and fresh investment off the field, they are positioned to target another play-off place and push for the title if key recruits and younger players adapt quickly.