Tony Williams could make a return to the NRL in 2019, after recently signing a one-year deal with Manly feeder club the Blacktown Workers.
If Williams was to work his way into the Sea Eagles' top 30 squad, he would return to play under long-time coach Des Hasler, who worked with Williams previously at Manly and Canterbury.
The 30-year-old had his contract torn up by Parramatta midway through 2018 after recording his second strike under the NRL's illicit drugs policy, and his NRL career was in jeopardy after that latest indiscretion.
Williams played just five games for the Eels last season before suffering another ACL injury, although he did impress onlookers during his first grade games.
However, if Williams was to find another NRL lifeline, it wouldn't be until after May, given he'll need to start the new season serving the majority of his 12-game drugs ban.
Williams won't be able to take the field for Blacktown until his ban is over.