I've said it before and I will continue to repeat it - recruitment drives can make or break seasons.
We've seen the Bulldogs transform from competition also-rans to Finals competitors mainly due to a season upon season recruitment drive.
Meanwhile the Tigers signed a host of players over the past three seasons and finished last on all three ocassions.
Today we're here to run a look over nine of the 17 NRL teams and their recruitment decisions for 2025.
Some teams will attract average grades due to a lack of activity. Keep in mind that not all teams need to go out and sign five quality players.
That said, below are recruitment grades for the first nine teams heading into 2025:
In: Michael Chee-Kam, Simione Laiafi, Zaidas Muagututia, Chris Patolo, D'Jazirhae Pua'Avase, Siosiua Taukeiaho, Jazz Tevaga
Out: Ben Condon, Bailey Hodgson, Jamie Humphreys, Karl Lawton, Brad Parker, Jaxson Paulo, Josh Schuster, Aaron Woods
Re-signed: Josh Aloiai, Nathan Brown, Gordon Chan Kum Tong, Haumole Olakau'atu, Taniela Paseka, Jason Saab, Ben Trbojevic, Raymond Tuaimalo Vaega
Manly welcome a host of players in; none of which really excite me.
Jazz Tevaga is 110% effort while Siosiua Taukeiaho was, at one point, one of the world's elite middles. That was a while back now though.
Re their losses ... again, I have almost no emotion. Josh Schuster promised so much but his leaving the club was a benefit to both parties.
Haumole Olakau'atu and Taniela Paseka re-signing long-term deals is massive. They will make up huge parts of the Manly pack for many years to come. Great business.
Overall they've gained little, most almost nothing and continue to rely on their superstars. Nothing has changed.
Grading: C
