2018 National Rugby League Signings likely to flop
Matthew Lodge (Brisbane Broncos)
This signing makes the list purely because Matthew Lodge should not ever play another minute in the NRL. It came as a surprise to most rugby league fans when the Broncos decided to throw him a lifeline, and even more of a surprise when the NRL approved his contract. Lodge does not deserve success, and will not find it in this sport.
Blake Green (New Zealand Warriors)
It was tough to put Blake Green on this list, after his fantastic 2017 season with the Sea Eagles, and the fact that I genuinely think he’ll be good for the Warriors next year. However, the Warriors seem to have some agenda against young Kiwi playmaker Ata Hingano, as the only thing this signing seems to achieve is keeping him in reserve grade. If Hingano leaves New Zealand, the Warriors will look back at this signing in a few years with a lot of regret.
Jarryd Hayne (Parramatta Eels)
Anyone surprised by the addition of Jarryd Hayne in this section has probably clicked on the wrong article. After a season to forget with the Titans, Hayne finds himself back where it all began in Parramatta. Eels coach Brad Arthur has taken a big risk on a player who barely managed a good effort in 2017. The hype will be massive, and unwarranted.
Aaron Woods (Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs)
Aaron Woods has gone from a popular forward to quite disliked in the rugby league community. He is now hated by many Wests Tigers fans, after captaining the club in 2017 with little pride or passion, and after his recent World Cup performances, both on the field and ‘interacting’ with the English fans after the final, there is a lot of general animosity for Aaron Woods. He makes decent meters when he needs to, but with Klemmer carrying the Dogs next season, expect Woods to sleep through 2018.
Chris Heighington Newcastle Knights)
This final spot was a difficult one to pick. Josh Reynolds could be hit or miss at the Tigers, the same can be said for Matthew Moylan at the Sharks, but its veteran forward Heighington that I’ve decided to go with. The Knights have made plenty of great signings for next season, the 34-year-old prop just isn’t one of them. His best years are well behind him, and despite the fact he’s a dual premiership winner, I can’t see him doing much for Newcastle.
