We all know that a big name signing, or a quickly emerging young star can completely change the outlook of a club's season.
We're now in mid-September and the number of players off-contract shrinks by the day.
That said, there are still some seriously talented players without a home for 2020 and beyond.
Below we take a look at those players and name our best option for each position. This will obviously be subjective and will depend on what teams are looking for.
Veterans may appeal to some teams, whilst younger stars or bargains appeal elsewhere. I've tried to even those out where possible.
We've used combined lists from the major media sources to compile the below. There's always the chance that a player has re-signed but it has not been announced.
Let us know in the comments who you believe are the best off-contract players.
8. Hooker: Nathan Peats
The obvious choice here is Cam Smith, however I still believe there's almost 0% chance that the Storm legend ever leaves the club. He will either retire or play one more year with the Storm. So for that purpose, we'll go with current Titans hooker Nathan Peats.
Peats is a former Origin number nine and although his time on the Gold Coast has fallen well below expectation, I would be shocked if he didn't find a home away from the club next season.
Manly recently re-signed young Fainu, however remain at the mercy of the outcome of his upcoming court trial. Surely Manly would be interested in a cut price Peats for a year or two?
If I were the Bulldogs I'd certainly be in contact with his manager. Brisbane could do worse also.
