Agreed - panicking is what got Tigers into this mess in the first place, every year since 2012.
Tim Sheens panicked when he thought he was on the outer after 2010-2011.
The new coaches (JT, Potter) panicked when it appeared the Board would not give them a decent tenure to implement roster and cultural changes.
Cleary manoeuvred for high cost high risk signings, and we now know he always had one eye on the Penrith throne.
For the first time in a decade the Board has given the coach (a) time, and (b) support to built a long-lasting roster and cultural change at the club. Unfortunately that does not mean quick success and a result like 2005 is usually the exception not the rule.
I am personally glad to have fewer and fewer selfish money-grabbing heartless mercenaries at the club. If Euan Aitken says he wants a silly amount of money, you tell him "no thanks" and walk away from the deal. And you negotiate this way 100% of the time, so prospective players are aware of what they are dealing with. "You've gotta pay overs" is only said by clueless pundits or desperate fans who have no responsibility for or knowledge of the club's salary cap.
Because these guys who drag you through the ringer to get their signature - that's a reflection of personal character, and that will not change when they join your club, or the next time they are off contract. And it will not contribute to the cohesive culture of your club either. That's the downside of signings those Israel Folaus, Jarryd Haynes, Sonny Bills, Tedescos etc. They are in it for their own brand.
