Christmas has come and gone, the Boxing Day sales saw the shops as busy as they are all year, and the New Year is just around the corner.
That also means the return of rugby league is closing in.
In just six weeks, the first pre-season trials will be underway, and not too long after that, it will be off to Las Vegas to open another campaign.
A handful of big names have switched clubs for 2026, and are, of course, hogging most of the pre-season bandwidth, but there are plenty of signings who will add value to their teams without breaking the bank.
Here are the top ten.
4. Jack de Belin (Parramatta Eels)
One of the more surprising moves ahead of 2026 was that of formerly one-club player Jack de Belin leaving the St George Illawarra Dragons.
The Red V, who have a grossly inexperienced forward pack, deciding not to offer him a new deal could really only be described as baffling.
Still, one club's loss is another club's gain, and the Parramatta Eels adding him for a year to their engine room is a tremendous decision.
On a basement contract for his experience and talent, de Belin will bring plenty to a Parramatta side who always seemed a forward short in 2025.
Whether he plays prop or lock is almost irrelevant. He is consistent at either position and will be a great foil for the aggression of Junior Paulo and co at the head of what the blue and gold are trying to do.
