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.
2. Adam Reynolds
Adam Reynolds is a freakishly talented player with a long history of success. He came within a play of leading Souths to a second premiership.
He arrives at the Broncos on a monster contract and with the expectation to deliver success right away.
With all due respect to the Broncos and their fans, this is a club who has finished within the bottom three, including a wooden spoon, in the past two seasons.
The expectation on Reynolds is rightfully high but looks to be a little unrealistic.
Yes, Reynolds is a massive upgrade on their halves options but he needs time to form combinations with a new club. I don't think it's unfair to suggest the Broncs roster is well below the one Reynolds left.
If the Broncos start slowly, I know who the blame will fall upon; whether deserved or not.
Honourable Mention: Ben Hunt
The Dragons number seven had his best season at the club in 2021. He enters 2022 with the club among the favourites to battle for the Wooden Spoon. If the Dragons are going to launch any kind of assault at the top eight, it comes down to Hunt in a big way.
And now for number one...
