The NRL has long flirted with the idea of having a loan system, although it has never fully been used throughout the game's history.

During the coronavirus pandemic, with more players sidelined than ever before, it was used at times, with the New Zealand Warriors in particular benefiting from its existence.

But there has been an ongoing discussion ever since that situation cleared itself up and the game got back to being somewhat normal.

Should a loan system exist, and be used more frequently by clubs?

While it's commonplace in European football competitions, there are plenty of NRL clubs that could benefit from a rival club's player for the remainder of 2026.

There are also players who could benefit from a move, extra minutes, a fresh coach and a change of scenery before returning to their current club in 2027.

Here are five players who simply make sense to be elsewhere for the remainder of 2026.

3. Tevita Naufahu (St George Illawarra Dragons)

There is no secret that the Dragons are desperate for pace, wing options and try-scoring ability.

While the Red V are commonly thought of as having one of the better crops of junior forwards in the competition who might be a year away from properly competing, there is no doubt they can't say the same in the backs.

On the wings this year, David Fale from the Panthers and Setu Tu from the Warriors arrived, but it's tough to say either has set the world on fire.

Christian Tuipulotu is still on the side but isn't quick enough, while Tyrell Sloan can't get a run, and Mat Feagai has been dropped from the extended bench this weekend.

With coach Shane Flanagan seemingly not sold in any way, shape or form on his wingers, there could be a market to bring Tevita Naufahu to the club.

He would almost certainly walk into the NRL side.

A brilliant 2025 debut season at the Dolphins has given way this year to a club where he is well down the pecking order following the arrival of Selwyn Cobbo and the return to fitness of others.

Jack Bostock isn't even back yet.

He will be lucky to play a game of NRL this year at the Redcliffe-based outfit, but would benefit greatly from first-grade minutes at another club that wears red and white.