Every once in a while, a rugby league club makes a signing that shifts the balance of the entire NRL. Whether that leads to a premiership, a Dally M medal, or simply an inch closer to the finals, an elite talent can alter the fabric of an NRL franchise.
While not every club has had a premiership-winning acquisition in the last decade, here are the best signings of the last decade for every team.
7. Melbourne Storm: Jahrome Hughes
Reigning Dally M and Halfback of the Year winner Jahrome Hughes's impact when he initially signed to the Melbourne Storm could not have been predicted.
Playing for a club that was home to Cooper Cronk for close to two decades, Hughes's ability to thrive in the No. 7 jersey has been nothing short of amazing.
Hughes was no halfback when he joined the Storm, but after legendary coach Craig Bellamy threw him into the halves, the former North Queensland Cowboys fullback became an elite NRL halfback.
After joining the club in 2017, Hughes went on to win an NRL premiership in 2020 and a Dally M medal in 2024.
Currently at the peak of his powers, not even Bellamy thought the New Zealand international would become as good as he did.
After losing the big three of Cameron Smith, Billy Slater, and Cooper Cronk, Hughes has been the main contributor to the Storm's continued success.
Every one of those is a plausible contender.
Personally, I would have picked Wayne Bennett as the Dolphinsโ greatest signing, but I expect youโre excluding coaches :=)
The only one I actually disagree with is Reece Walsh. I believe Payne Haas is more influential. Just my opinion, and you know what they say: โopinions are like a**holes โ everybody has got one, and some are more smelly than othersโ.
Apologies to ZeroTacklers if I just stank out the room !