THE Cleo Bachelor of the Year competition has turned its back on NRL players, with a move towards foodies, musos and creative men.

It's believed to be the first time in the magazine competition's 24-year history that a rugby league player hasn't been included in the top 50 finalists.

Instead, foodies like patissier Adriano Zumbo, celebrity chef Curtis Stone and food photographer and chef Luke Burgess seem to be the flavour of the day.

Cleo editor Sarah Oakes said the top 50, officially announced in Sydney on Monday, reflected that women wanted a more "sensitive man".

"It is definitely a reflection of what is happening in popular culture," Oakes told AAP.

"There are not as many celebrities and sports people as usual - just a lot more real guys, who are doing interesting things.

"And interestingly the complete absence of NRL for what I believe is the first time ever."

Also missing out on the chance to become Australia's most eligible bachelor are bikie Mark James Judge and media heir Ryan Stokes, the ex-boyfriend of former Home and Away starlet Jodi Gordon.

Both were controversially included in the long-list earlier this year.

Zumbo, who came to fame on MasterChef Australia, said he was delighted to be nominated but didn't rate his chances.

"It's out of my ballpark," Zumbo told AAP, adding it was nice to see so many creative types in the running.

Others up for the gong are musician Rob Farnham, son of John Farnham, actors George Houvardas and Andrew Lees, and presenters James Kerley and James Tobin, and singer Rob Mills.

While there are no NRL players, a number of sportsmen made the cut including AFL player Aaron Edwards, rower Cameron McKenzie-McHarg, athlete John Steffensen, and surfer Owen Wright.

The inventor of a thought-controlled wheelchair Jordan Son Nguyen, is among the lesser known contestants.

Oakes said it would be great to see an "unknown" win.

"I feel like Axle (Whitehead) last year was a really clear winner, but I feel this year it's anyone's game," Oakes said.

"I shouldn't have favourites but it would be nice to have a normal guy win it this year."

The winner will be announced at an event on April 28.