The Perth Bears are set to enter the NRL in 2027, and will be able to attack the open market from November 1 this year as they attempt to lure players across the country.
Given the trouble the Dolphins had in doing the same to a rugby league hot spot on the north side of Brisbane, the Bears could well face untold issues in attempting to attract talent as they prepare to become the 18th NRL team.
Last week, my colleague Dan Nichols ran the rule over the five marquee players the Bears should target for their entry into the competition.
But every team needs players who aren't marquees to make the salary cap work, and to make the team into something.
Running the rule over the list of players currently off-contract at the end of 2026, here are the ten players (in no particular order) the Bears must target as they aim to build a competitive squad from the word go.
7. Jamie Humphreys (South Sydney Rabbitohs)
Humphreys, who has spent the last couple of weeks out with a hamstring injury, has been one of the buys of the year in 2025.
Surprisingly stepping into South Sydney's number seven jumper at the start of this year's campaign, the halfback piloted his side to a number of wins early on.
The Rabbitohs have had other injuries in recent weeks which have hampered their progress, but it's clear the off-season recruit from Manly missing out has hurt more than most.
His kicking game is strong, his running is solid, and his decision-making improving with each game.
