The Raiders were grand finalists just three years ago – coming oh so close to a premiership – but it’s been heavy going since then.
I would have expected them to be more active in the transfer market but the four players they have signed are all quality.
READ MORE: Zverev attacks chair umpire in stunning outburst
READ MORE: AFL legend’s son signed after impressive trial
READ MORE: BBL player slaps teammate for dropped catch
They’ve got rid of some dead wood and will be stronger in 2022 but I’m still not fully convinced this is a squad capable of making it through to finals footy – they will need a good run with injury to get there.
2021 finishing position: 10th
Gains: Jamal Fogarty (Titans), Peter Hola (Cowboys), Adam Elliott (Bulldogs), Nick Cotric (Bulldogs).
Losses: George Williams (Warrington), Ryan James (Broncos), Siliva Havili (Rabbitohs), Bailey Simonsson (Eels), Sia Soliola (retired), Dunamis Lui (released), Curtis Scott (released), Darby Medlyn (released), Caleb Aekins (Leigh).
Best 17: 1. Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad, 2. Jordan Rapana, 3. Jarrod Croker, 4. Sebastian Kris, 5. Nick Cotric, 6. Jack Wighton, 7. Jamal Fogarty, 8. Josh Papalii, 9. Josh Hodgson, 10. Joseph Tapine, 11. Hudson Young, 12. Corey Harawira-Naera, 13. Elliott Whitehead, 14. Tom Starling, 15. Ryan Sutton, 16. Corey Horsburgh, 17. Adam Elliott.
Greatest strength: The Raiders’ pack has as much go-forward on its day as any in the game with the likes of Joe Tapine, Josh Papalii, Elliott Whitehead and the under-rated Corey Harawira-Naera. They are capable of a few ambushes during a long season.
Biggest question mark: Jamal Fogarty showed plenty of class for the Titans last season – but can he lead this Raiders team into finals footy after the disappointments of last season?
Man under pressure: Josh Hodgson had an unhappy year on and off the field in 2021 and it seemed certain he would leave the club over the summer. In the end he stayed – he’s going in 2023 – and the team will rely heavily on him for direction around the rucks and go-forward.
Biggest loss: An unhappy George Williams went back to England early last season and the Raiders struggled for a regular halfback from that point. Jamal Fogarty has inherited the hot seat and time will tell if he has the smarts to get the Raiders to the finals.
Predicted 2022 finishing position: 8th
For a daily dose of the best of the breaking news and exclusive content from Wide World of Sports, subscribe to our newsletter by clicking here!