As NRL clubs look hopefully towards next season - we pessimistically ponder the worst-case scenario for each of the 17 teams in 2023.

14. St George Illawarra Dragons: More young stars leave

Perhaps the obvious one here is anything happening to Ben Hunt, as the club captain continues to carry the squad on his back week after week.

However, the departure of young talent next season is another troubling situation for the Red V.

TOOWOOMBA, AUSTRALIA - AUGUST 22: Talatau Amone of the Dragons looks dejected after a Roosters try during the round 23 NRL match between the St George Illawarra Dragons and the Sydney Roosters at Clive Berghofer Stadium, on August 22, 2021, in Toowoomba, Australia. (Photo by Jono Searle/Getty Images)

The re-signings of Hunt and Talatau Amone has moved Jayden Sullivan to third in the halves pecking order and motivated him to look at other clubs. 

Tyrell Sloan had also requested a release during the tumultuous end to the Red V's 2022 campaign, but he's since backflipped on the decision to fight for his place. There's still every chance he may start the season as fullback, with current custodian Cody Ramsey out indefinitely with health issues. 

Compounding these issues is the fact that coach Anthony Griffin is set for the axe next year and these young players probably have no idea who will take the role from 2024 onwards.

1 COMMENT

  1. Before I read this, I thought “the worst that can happen” would be the same for each club: injury to one of its spine.

    However – Dolphins, Dragons, West and Warriors – all about the club pulling together. Cows and Roosters – the same (to a lesser degree).

    Perhaps this tells us that the influence of the coach – his ability to plan, organise, motivate and control his squad – is at least as important as that of any one player.