# NWSL 2026: Early Season Standout Players Making Waves
As the 2026 NWSL season kicks off, several players have already begun to carve out their names in the early matches. With the preseason behind us and the regular season underway, it’s time to spotlight the individuals who are turning heads with their performances. From veterans finding new form to rookies bursting onto the scene, these players are shaping the narrative of the young season. Here’s a deep dive into three early standouts and what their contributions mean for their teams and the league.
Veteran Resurgence: Megan Rapinoe’s Impact at Seattle Reign
Megan Rapinoe, the iconic forward for Seattle Reign FC, has started the 2026 season with a renewed vigor that reminds fans of her peak years. In the opening match against Portland Thorns, Rapinoe notched an assist and nearly scored herself with a curling shot that hit the crossbar. Her vision on the field and ability to unlock defenses have been critical for a Reign side looking to reclaim their dominance in the league. At 40 years old, Rapinoe’s leadership is as vital as her playmaking, mentoring a younger squad while still delivering on the pitch.
Rapinoe’s early form suggests she could be a dark horse for MVP consideration if she maintains this level. For Seattle, her presence is a stabilizing force as they navigate a competitive Western Conference. Her ability to draw defenders and create space for teammates like Bethany Balcer could be the key to a deep playoff run.
Rookie Sensation: Alyssa Thompson’s Breakout at Angel City FC
Alyssa Thompson, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NWSL Draft, has wasted no time making her mark with Angel City FC. In her debut against San Diego Wave FC, Thompson scored the equalizer in a tightly contested match, showcasing her pace and finishing ability. Her goal came from a darting run down the left wing, cutting inside, and slotting the ball past the keeper—a play that belied her rookie status.
Thompson’s emergence is a boon for Angel City, who have struggled to find consistent attacking threats in recent seasons. Paired with Christen Press in the forward line, she’s already forming a dynamic partnership that could propel the team up the standings. For the NWSL, Thompson represents the next generation of talent, and her early success could inspire more young players to pursue professional careers in the league.
Midfield Maestro: Rose Lavelle’s Dominance at OL Reign
Rose Lavelle continues to be the heartbeat of OL Reign’s midfield, and her performances in the opening weeks of 2026 have been nothing short of masterful. Against Chicago Red Stars, Lavelle controlled the tempo with pinpoint passing and scored a long-range stunner that sealed a crucial victory. Her ability to dictate play and transition defense into attack remains unmatched in the league.
For OL Reign, Lavelle’s form is a reminder of why they’re perennial contenders. Her partnership with Jess Fishlock in midfield provides a balance of creativity and grit, making them a formidable unit. As the season progresses, Lavelle’s consistency will be key to sustaining momentum, especially with tough fixtures on the horizon. For fans, her play is a masterclass in midfield artistry, reinforcing her status as one of the league’s elite.
Why These Performances Matter
The early season is often a proving ground, and these standout performances carry significant weight. For veterans like Rapinoe and Lavelle, their form sets a high bar for the rest of the league, showing that experience still reigns supreme. Meanwhile, rookies like Thompson highlight the influx of fresh talent that keeps the NWSL dynamic and unpredictable. These players aren’t just impacting their teams—they’re shaping the storylines that will define the 2026 season.
As the NWSL continues to grow in competitiveness and visibility, individual brilliance like this draws attention to the league’s depth. Fans and analysts alike will be watching to see if these early sparks ignite into sustained excellence. With packed schedules ahead, the pressure is on for these players to maintain their momentum and for others to rise to the challenge.
Looking Ahead
The next few weeks will be telling. Can Rapinoe defy age and lead Seattle to a top spot? Will Thompson continue her meteoric rise and become a household name by midseason? And can Lavelle carry OL Reign through a grueling campaign? These questions will linger as the NWSL unfolds, but for now, these players have given us plenty to talk about. Stay tuned as we track their progress and uncover more stars in the making.