Every once in a while, a rugby league club makes a signing that shifts the balance of the entire NRL. Whether that leads to a premiership, a Dally M medal, or simply an inch closer to the finals, an elite talent can alter the fabric of an NRL franchise.
While not every club has had a premiership-winning acquisition in the last decade, here are the best signings of the last decade for every team.
15. Sydney Roosters: James Tedesco
While it is tough to separate James Tedesco and Cooper Cronk for this pick, the six-time Roosters Player of the Year recipient has been one of the greatest pickups for any club in the last 10 years.
After joining the Sydney Roosters in 2018, Tedesco cemented himself as one of the greatest fullbacks of all time.
The Roosters skipper has won back-to-back premierships with the club, and has also received a Dally M medal during his tenure as well.
Captaining his club, his state, and his country, 'Teddy' has had a prime unlike many other players in NRL history.
His damaging ball-running and elite tackle-breaking ability has made him a threat to defences for years, and after coming second in Dally M voting just last year, the 32-year-old is as lethal as ever.
Playing for a club as historically great as the Sydney Roosters is a tough task for any star, but Tedesco has shown his willingness to compete every night since donning the Tri Colours jersey in 2018.
Every one of those is a plausible contender.
Personally, I would have picked Wayne Bennett as the Dolphins’ greatest signing, but I expect you’re excluding coaches :=)
The only one I actually disagree with is Reece Walsh. I believe Payne Haas is more influential. Just my opinion, and you know what they say: “opinions are like a**holes – everybody has got one, and some are more smelly than others”.
Apologies to ZeroTacklers if I just stank out the room !