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Smith has always been a unique sportsperson and is usually criticised for his decisions and actions. From being a protected species and the third referee, not signing a deal until a couple weeks before the season would not be unSmith-like.
He will already be in great shape and would only need a few weeks of training and game time to become match fit.
Furthermore, signing a deal with the Titans could allow Smith to cement his legacy as the GOAT of the NRL. With the likes of Andrew Fifita and Tino Fa’asuamaleaui strengthening the forward pack, the combination of Jamal Fogarty and Ash Taylor looking fantastic, and the emergence of young stars AJ Brimson and Moeaki Fotuaika, Smith can join the club knowing they are a shot at making the finals and potentially the top four.
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There is a rumour that the recent signing of former Brisbane hooker Andrew McCullough to the Dragons will allow Smith to sign a one-year deal with the Broncos. But there isn’t as much to gain for Smith by signing with the Broncos, especially towards his legacy.
Despite their horrendous 2020 season, Brisbane have always been a strong NRL team, with premierships and Origin players. If Smith signed a deal at Red Hill and took them from wooden spooners to final contenders, it would pale in comparison to him leading the Gold Coast to the finals or a maiden premiership.
As an NRL fan, I would love to see Smith go around one more year with the Gold Coast Titans and bring them into premiership contention.
