A two-time Dally M winner, Thurston is short-priced to take it out again after another stellar season. At the last count in July, he shared top spot with Ben Hunt on 19 points.
2/7
Ben Hunt - Brisbane Broncos
When voting went behind closed doors in July, Brisbane halfback Ben Hunt surprised many by sharing top spot with Johnathan Thurston.
3/7
Daly Cherry-Evans - Manly Sea Eagles
Cherry-Evans was in fifth place in July but his poor late season form does not bode well for his chances.
4/7
Greg Inglis - South Sydney Rabbitohs
Inglis has enjoyed another dominant season but will need to make a late charge to take out the award after being 10 points off top spot in July.
5/7
Jarryd Hayne - Parramatta Eels
The heart and soul of Parramatta, Hayne was only one point behind the Dally M leaders when voting went behind closed doors.
6/7
Josh Reynolds - Canterbury Bulldogs
Reynolds was in with a real shot after guiding the Bulldogs to the top of table early in the season. However a number of games missed through suspension will likely cruel his chances.
7/7
Sam Burgess - South Sydney Rabbitohs
Boasting size, skill and fortitude, Burgess led the Rabbitohs' monster pack with aplomb in 2014 and was only one point behind the joint Dally M leaders in July.
Yahoo Sport Australia
Check out the players in with a chance of winning the NRL's highest individual honour.