Surprised if we are not looking at some of the players below, assuming they become available. None would be on huge dollars and each would offer something to our team.
1. Ricky Leutele (Sharks). Doesn't get the wraps he deserves. Runs hard. Tackles hard. Big and fast. Would prefer him over Kelly in centres.
2. Suasio Taukeiaho (Roosters). Potential gun. Unusually agile for a player that size. Among Roosters best forwards. Would love him in our pack.
3. Kirsome Auva'a (Eels). Had his problems, but surprised how well he's played of late. Big, fast and mean. Clear upgrade on Matt Wright. Will be surplus at Eels when Clint/French return. We need another strike weapon on wing to cover for Jorge/Uate.
4. Agnatius Passi (Titans). A 115kg beast on his day. Has potential to tear teams apart but doesn't do it enough. He contract is up next year at Titans. Doubtful he'll leave (he's a local), but strange the Titans haven't locked him in to long-term deal.
For depth (minimum wage/ one year contract).
5. Albert Vete (Warriors). Huge unit yet to live up to potential - but who does at Warriors? Only 24.
6. Eddy Pettybourne (Titans). Still only 29. Lots of NRL experience. Short stocky prop who runs hard and straight. The Next Big Thing at Souths a while back but never kicked on. Reckon he would be vastly better player at Eagles for a few seasons, at budget price.
1. Ricky Leutele (Sharks). Doesn't get the wraps he deserves. Runs hard. Tackles hard. Big and fast. Would prefer him over Kelly in centres.
2. Suasio Taukeiaho (Roosters). Potential gun. Unusually agile for a player that size. Among Roosters best forwards. Would love him in our pack.
3. Kirsome Auva'a (Eels). Had his problems, but surprised how well he's played of late. Big, fast and mean. Clear upgrade on Matt Wright. Will be surplus at Eels when Clint/French return. We need another strike weapon on wing to cover for Jorge/Uate.
4. Agnatius Passi (Titans). A 115kg beast on his day. Has potential to tear teams apart but doesn't do it enough. He contract is up next year at Titans. Doubtful he'll leave (he's a local), but strange the Titans haven't locked him in to long-term deal.
For depth (minimum wage/ one year contract).
5. Albert Vete (Warriors). Huge unit yet to live up to potential - but who does at Warriors? Only 24.
6. Eddy Pettybourne (Titans). Still only 29. Lots of NRL experience. Short stocky prop who runs hard and straight. The Next Big Thing at Souths a while back but never kicked on. Reckon he would be vastly better player at Eagles for a few seasons, at budget price.