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.
17. Wests Tigers: Jarome Luai
Jarome Luai's arrival to the Wests Tigers signalled a changing of the guard for the club.
A side that can be described as nothing but a disappointment for the last decade or so, the acquisition of Luai provided Tigers fans with a glimmer of hope for better days.
The four-time premiership half joins the side this year with a point to prove. Known as one of the most polarising players in NRL history, Luai has joined the Tigers to showcase his ability as the go-to guy for a struggling side.
His arrival is a boon for Benji Marshall and this Tigers side, which has lacked any sense of character or improvement for quite some time.
While every player on this list has had to prove themselves in one way or another to be considered as their clubs' best signing, the sheer fact that the Tigers were able to acquire a talent such as Luai is a victory in itself.
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 !