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.
4. Can Griffin Neame become an X-Factor?
This must be the season where Griffin Neame finally realises all of the potential he has shown at every level he has played up until the NRL.
He has long been rated as the best young forward in the Cowboys' system, but to this point, has been denied a starting role by the likes of Coen Hess and Jordan McLean.
That can't be the case in 2024 both for his own personal career, but frankly, for the Cowboys as a club. If they want to go to the next level, then they need the forward to fire.
It comes with an ageing forward pack around him. We already mentioned Hess and McLean, but Taumalolo is no spring chicken anymore either.
There are other young players at the Cowboys, but Neame is the one who can break it open. He has shown glimpses of his capabilities, but this year he must break through on a consistent basis.
