Cowboys star Jason Taumalolo has backed Valentine Holmes' NFL journey while labelling it a "huge risk".
Two years ago, Taumalolo and Holmes flew to America after a Four Nations tournament in England to audition in front of NFL scouts.
Taumalolo turned his back on the idea and inked the longest contract in NRL history to remain a Cowboys until 2027, while Holmes is still trying his luck abroad.
"It's a huge risk but its a good one for Val," he told theย Daily Telegraph.ย
"He's got age and youth on his side. I definitely think if anyone is capable of giving that a hot crack it's Val.
"He's got the talent is young and willing to learn.
"He's been one of the best players in the NRL and for him to make that move would be huge, but I'm definitely backing him to make it."
Taumalolo returned from the NFL experiment in late 2016 and committed himself to rugby league, but the Tongan international said he thought Holmes didn't feel the same way.
"I definitely think it was playing on his mind," he said.
"He's got the skill set, it's all bout learning."
Taumalolo will be 34 when his 10-year contract with the Cowboys expires, locking into the NRL for the remainder of his career. And it's something the former Dally M Medallist is comfortable with.
"I'm definitely happy playing here for the next 10 years," he said.
"(I haven't regretted the contract) at all.
"Val is on his own ride. He is at a time where he can make that move.
"I love this club and have been here from the start. Fingers crossed I finish still playing for the Cowboys."
