The North Queensland Cowboys come into the 2024 season off what can only be described as a disappointing slide over the last 12 months, and they will be desperate to prove their preliminary final appearance in 2022 wasn't simply a flash in the pan.
But to prove that, Todd Payten's side are going to have to overcome some significant roadblocks, although they have already taken a handful of steps to address the biggest issues.
Even with some steps taken in Townsville though, that certainly doesn't mean the Cowboys come into the new campaign as a favoured team likely to turn things around.
Their form last year was nothing short of abysmal as they collapsed from a preliminary final in 2022 to missing the top eight altogether in 2023. That said, their horror fade down the table was somewhat sheltered thanks to abysmal performances from a number of other finals-sliding clubs.
Here are the questions that will determine whether the Cowboys make their way back up the table in 2024, or are set for another season of poor results.
3. Will Jason Taumalolo find his best?
The plight of Jason Taumalolo in recent seasons has been one to follow with interest.
While the veteran forward still has four years to run on his current deal with the Townsville-based outfit, there is little doubt that there are issues.
He was stripped of the captaincy ahead of this year's campaign, and was recently targetted by the St George Illawarra Dragons.
While Taumalolo, his management and more importantly the club put on a united front, it's unlikely to be a rumour that'll go anywhere anytime soon. He was reportedly left shocked by the decision to axe the captaincy from his grasp, but it's ultimately a decision that could be for the best.
His production has simply been down in recent seasons. That's not to say it has been bad, but the role of a modern day lock forward has passed Taumalolo by.
There is a school of thought that suggests to get him back to his best, a move to prop will be the way to go. Run hard, tackle hard, don't worry about the rest.
Whichever way it goes, the Cowboys need him playing big mintues at big production if they are going to propel their way back into the top eight this year.
