LeagueNews.co | Robbie Hamilton
The Roosters' 2023 season got off to a slow start, but they managed to overcome the setbacks and come close to reaching the grand final, falling just two wins short.
For many clubs, this would be considered a successful season, but the Roosters, with their history of winning three premierships in the past decade, see it as a missed opportunity.
They only won five of their first 11 games, which they view as a disappointment.
However, heading into the 2024 season, the Roosters have a star-studded roster filled with representative stars and the addition of talented players like Dom Young and Spencer Leniu.
With the arrival of English superstar Dom Young, the team's outside backs are stacked with talent.
The competition for edge positions will be fierce as the new recruits challenge the existing players like Daniel Tupou and Junior Pauga.
Coach Trent Robinson will also have some tough decisions to make regarding the centres, as Young might be switched to a different position.
This means that Billy Smith, Joey Manu, and Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii will all be competing for a spot in the team during pre-season training.
The depth and quality of the squad's outside backs will surely create a lively competition for positions.
Spencer Leniu's physicality and aggression will add an extra dimension to the Roosters' forward pack.
However, the team already has some fiery players, including Leniu's new teammate Jared Waerea-Hargreaves.
This was evident in a heated clash between the two players in a previous season.
While there is no bad blood between them, it is clear that there might not be enough room for both players to lose their cool on the field.
The Roosters' resurgence in 2023 can largely be attributed to the return of their prodigious halfback, Sam Walker.
Despite being dropped earlier in the season, Walker made a triumphant comeback in the final round and helped the Roosters secure a spot in the play-offs.
In just his third NRL game since being recalled, Walker showcased his talent and potential, sealing a dramatic win with a 20-metre field goal.
With Walker likely to take on a more prominent role in 2024 following Drew Hutchison's departure, the young playmaker looks set to lead the Roosters in their Round 1 clash against the Broncos in Las Vegas.
While Walker takes on the role of the team's primary playmaker, emerging talent Sandon Smith also shows promise in the halves.
The Roosters are beginning to prepare for the post-Luke Keary era, and Smith's contract extension suggests that he could have a bright future in the team.
As the young halfback and Walker develop their partnership, the Roosters will be looking to continue their success and challenge for the title in 2024.