Canberra's difficult start to the season has continued on a double dealing of bad news in relation to their superstar half Jack Wighton.
The former Dally M medalist is not only set for a two-week stint on the sidelines following a late, and high, shot on a prone kicker but he has now announced his intention to 'test the market'.
Having spent the entirety of his 224 NRL career in the capital, Wighton looked a certain 'lifer' in that he'd surely end his career in the lime green.
The recent announcement suggests he's at the very least looking around to maximise both his earnings and potential to win a premiership.
Of course, it's all speculation at this stage but below are five likely landing spots for the multiple-time rep star:
4. St George Illawarra Dragons
If there's one side requiring a marquee signing more than even the Tigers, it is the Red V.
The Dragons started the 2023 season well but have fallen of a cliff in the last 95 minutes of action and really need a pick-me-up.
Wighton walks into this side. Talatau Junior Amone has just returned from the no-fault stand-down and was outplayed by Dan Atkinson in the NSW Cup last weekend.
Jayden Sullivan looks a real talent but was the second choice behind Amone prior to his off-season troubles.
Ben Hunt has carried the Dragons for as long as I can remember and is in desperate need of help. Jack Wighton instantly provides that and more.
The Dragons need to jump at this opportunity and pretty much hand Wighton a blank cheque. It could be the difference between attracting a top quality coach or having to take a punt.
Whether or not the Dragons should mortgage their future, and over $2 million on a pair of halves the wrong side of 30 is another question.
Matt Moylan is supposed to have accepted a “salary-cap friendly” (ie cheap) rate, in recognition that he missed a lot of time through injury when he was getting paid the big bucks.
So, where is Cronulla going to find a lazy $800K or more to sign Wighton? Remember, while Moylan is inexpensive, he is also signed for 2024, so it’s not as if there are any savings – unless the Sharks are able to persuade Matt to move on. I can’t see him wanting to do that.