The Perth Bears are preparing for their entry into the NRL in 2027, and the early recruitment picture shows some promise, but mostly urgency.
With 16 signings already secured, the club is laying foundations, but it is still without a true marquee name and lacks a clear veteran figure to lead its inaugural squad.
For a new franchise entering a rugby league landscape dominated in Western Australia by the AFL, the Bears' first year will be critical.
Here are six players off contract at the end of 2026 who could elevate the Bears whilst helping shape their club's identity.
2027 NRL signing and best 19 tracker
5. Francis Molo (Dolphins)
Francis Molo would bring the physical presence the Bears will need to compete in the middle of the field.
With over 150 NRL games and State of Origin experience for Queensland, Molo is a proven front-rower capable of setting a strong platform. His size, aggression, and work rate would immediately improve Perth's forward pack, which is crucial for any expansion side aiming to avoid being dominated through the middle.
Molo also brings international experience with Samoa and the Cook Islands, further highlighting his experience in high-pressure environments. For a new club trying to establish toughness and respect, he would be a significant early signing.
I suspect Kurt Mann and Damien Cook are just a year or two too old.
Cobbo would be a classy pick up and at the same time a good long-term purchase.
Connor Tracy was a utility at Cronulla, and is worth recruiting for his versatility, as well as his ability as a full-back.
Current Cronulla fullback William Kennedy is at least as good as Tracy, and recruiting him as well as Tracy would would ensure quality depth in a spine position.
Nahhh all those mentioned would be good fit for startup Bears including Mann & Cook it’s the ongoing years that maybe a factor..
Tracey re-signed with us did he not?