2022 is shaping up to be a ripper of a season. The Penrith Panthers will be looking to defend their crown, while at the opposite end of the table the Canterbury Bulldogs enter the season completely transformed.
A host of big-name players have switched clubs, new coaches will take the reins. To say I'm excited is an understatement.
Some players though will start the season under immediate pressure.
Whether it be pressure to hit the ground running at their new club, pressure to take them that one step further in 2022 or other factors, the pressure is on.
We look at ten players who face pressure from Round 1 in 2022.
8. Luke Keary
The Roosters managed to finish just outside the top four last season despite an injury list the likes never seen before in the NRL.
Given the fact former New South Wales half Luke Keary is due back, it's expected they'll go even further next season. Right?
Keary is coming off a severe injury that ended his 2021 in only Round 3.
Some players return from such injuries and hit the ground running. Some take a long time to return to their best. Others simply never re-find their pre-injury form.
Keary is a brilliant player and I have no doubt he will be amongst one of the game's best next year, but if he isn't, the Roosters will struggle.
