The North Queensland Cowboys enter 2026 as one of the competition's most under pressure teams.
There is simply no doubt on that front.
Todd Payten is a man who has, frankly, underachieved with his side since taking over. There have been finals appearances, but the consistency hasn't been there, and 2025 saw another downturn for the North Queensland outfit.
That shouldn't be happening to a team playing with the likes of Scott Drinkwater, Tom Dearden and Jeremiah Nanai.
What is clear is that the Cowboys need to turn things around if the playing group want to avoid a cull, and if Payten wants to continue in his job.
And there are some enormous selection questions facing the Cowboys as they head into the new year surrounding both their young talent and veterans alike.
What role for Jason Taumalolo?
There is absolutely no doubt that Jason Taumalolo is approaching the end of his career, but in the same breath, it would be foolish to suggest he has nothing left to add at the top level.
For a few years, he did struggle with his role, and his production slipped.
Injuries certainly impacted the season in 2025 for the star on the wrong side of 30, but when he was on the park, he was still a critical part of the Cowboys' middle third rotation.
He certainly isn't a lock anymore, and it appears John Bateman will run that role as he attempts to revitalise his own career, but Taumalolo should be in the mix to partner Reuben Cotter in the front-row.
The big question that leaves is what it will mean for the club's other forwards.
