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Opinion
Every few years, a trend emerges within the game.
It might be a certain style of play, a certain technique within the game, a certain build of player or a different area of focus within a particular position.
More recently, the agile, ball playing lock has become a type of player a lot of teams have been interested in.
The latest trend player managers have identified is the interest in utility players.
These days, No.14 is a position in itself.
The role is not new.
Utility players have been key to most squads for quite some time but what’s interesting is clubs are now deliberately recruiting utility players to fill a bench role.
The likes of Tyrone Peachey are players in demand.
Peachey is off-contract with the Gold Coast and expected to leave the Titans for a return to Sydney.
The Roar understands there’s a host of clubs competing for his signature.
Another utility with options is Newcastle livewire Connor Watson.
Several media outlets have reported the Knights’ offer to re-sign Watson as being on the low end of his expected salary expectations and that has opened the door for the Sydney Roosters to join the table.
Connor Watson (Photo by Cameron Spencer/Getty Images)
They’re in the market for a utility player and they don’t come much more versatile than the Central Coast product.
Throughout his career, Watson has played lock, five-eighth, hooker and fullback.
Trent Robinson confirmed his interest in Watson this week, stating; “We talked about two things – whether there was an opening at the Roosters but then also what are the best options for him.
“I’ve kept in contact with Connor for the last four years since he’s been away. And I’m always there for him and other players if they need advice as well.”
The Roosters aren’t the only team chasing a utility with Cronulla, Manly, Parramatta and Melbourne also surveying the market.
It’s understood the Sharks are after a utility with a strength of playing in the halves.
Every club has a depth chart, with key positions like hooker and half needing three players on their books.
For the Eels, The Roar understands they view the utility role as someone who can contribute as a ball playing lock as their priority.
The Sea Eagles are after a utility who has the hooking position as a strength.
While many teams have a utility in mind, Brisbane are in the market for experienced middles and Canberra are seeking a half.
The Storm were another looking at utility players but with a proficiency in the halves.
It didn’t take them long to land their man.
Jayden Nikorima has secured an NRL lifeline from the Storm.
The 24-year-old made his NRL debut for the Roosters in 2016, playing seven games and covering half, hooker and five-eighth.
Having served a mandatory ban under the NRL’s illicit drugs policy, Nikorima revealed on the Building Better Humans Project podcast, that he’ll move to Melbourne in November.
Nikorima said; “I’ve signed with Melbourne for one year.
“My reasoning for signing with them is – they’re the best team. I’ve been out of the game for so long, I know they will help my footy.”
With Nicho Hynes off to the Sharks at the end of the year, Nikorima has an opportunity to fill his position.
“I expect to learn as much as I can, from the best players in the comp,” he said.
“I don’t expect to play a game. I expect to have the hardest pre-season of my life. For those who don’t know, I’m expecting a baby in November too, so I’ll be away from my baby. I’m expecting it to be a tough slog. I’m just looking forward to being part of a system.”
While the Storm thought outside the square to land their man, the search for the other clubs continues.