2026 squad - still not good enough

[N1troaf]

Hello,

So after thinking about how you can structure a salary cap, I figured it was worth looking at our 2026 squad to see how it matches up (based the "how many players ideal" on the calculation in this thread: https://weststigersforum.com/threads/managing-the-salary-cap.36713/#post-2168078).

Long story short - as things stand - our 2026 squad is definetly an improvement on this year, but still too "bottom heavy". Have assumed Jayden Sullivan is moving on, and we are resigning Taylan May. The rest of the names I've taken from the NRL website. The ratings is based on how they rate compared to other players in their respective position. Room for debate on that front I appreciate.

4 players left by this calculation - ideally all four would be average NRL players or above, but that's probably a tall order.

View attachment 26515

I’d put Terrell May in Elite, easily been our best player this season, and arguably been the best prop in the comp

 

[GNR4LIFE]

The ins for 26 aren’t very inspiring. KPP is obviously the headliner, but he hasn’t really been setting the world on fire. I’ve read some claim that he’s a victim of the halves, but Lucas didn’t have that issue before his injury. Madden is meh, and the others at best are just potential.

 

[Betterdays22]

Mate souths have had a shocker. We are no comparison.View attachment 26563

Saw thats round 17. Heres the most recent one. We have had a great year on the injury front.

 

[Aceshigh]

Bulldogs 😂…. Just have to laugh if they get him

They will say he wanted to come to us to play and therefore will take unders😂

 

[bigsiro]

T May and Bula have without doubt been our best performers this year and could argue deserve the elite status.

Turuva has been our best.
May second.

Bula, compared to every other team’s first choice fullback is average - at best. OP being kind IMO.
Got potential but.

 

[BAGNF05]

Our forward pack is the problem. The solution needs to be a combination of external recruitment and development. Guys like Pole, Samuela, Sione, are getting to an age or experience level where they need to become more consistent first graders. May needs to maintain his level and we just can’t rely on a few blokes who have been mainstays for a while. Still think a Leniu type is a must.

 

[Merlot]

we are a young squad , just build cohesion ,self belief, and maturity. Good Times ahead with /if the stability Richo is building sticks