The St George Illawarra Dragons are shaping up to be one of the most aggressive players in the NRL’s open market once the November 1 deadline hits.
While most clubs have already locked in their 30-man squads for 2026, the Dragons are operating with just 26 contracted players, giving coach Shane Flanagan a rare level of flexibility heading into the next recruitment phase.
It’s a situation that could work heavily in Flanagan’s favour.
With several rival clubs already pressed up against the salary cap, the Dragons have both the cap space and roster spots to target bargain buys and strategic upgrades in key positions, particularly after a disappointing 2025 campaign that exposed depth issues across the park.
MORE: NRL stands down Rabbitohs star under No-Fault Policy after police charges
The Mole reports that one player set to dominate early market conversations is South Sydney forward Keaon Koloamatangi, who made an eye-catching Test debut for the Kangaroos at Wembley last weekend.
Despite his rise into the international arena, Souths have yet to secure him beyond 2026, a surprise that could prove costly.
With multiple clubs likely circling, the Dragons could enter the frame as a serious contender.
Flanagan has made no secret of his desire to inject more size and aggression into his forward pack, and Koloamatangi fits that brief perfectly.
Beyond individual signings, the Dragons’ recruitment push represents a defining moment in their rebuild.
After years of inconsistency and roster turnover, Flanagan’s second full season at the helm could finally deliver the stability fans have been craving.