North Queensland Cowboys coach Todd Payten is closer to solidifying his position at the club, having garnered important support from influential figures within the organization.
Payten joined the Cowboys in 2021 after his stint with the Warriors during the challenging COVID-19 season, where he was separated from his family.
At the beginning of this season, there were doubts regarding Payten's future in Townsville, especially after the Cowboys missed the finals in 2025 and faced challenges in maintaining consistency.
However, the Courier Mail reports that there is increasing support within the club to extend the 47-year-old's contract beyond 2026, as his current agreement is set to end at the conclusion of this season.
Payten is said to be looking for clarity regarding his future, with a four-member football committee assigned to decide on his continuation as head coach.
Prominent former Cowboys players, including David Myles, Brent Tate, Johnathan Thurston, and Matt Scott, are anticipated to be instrumental in the decision-making process.
This renewed backing arrives during a promising campaign for North Queensland, who have achieved eight victories out of their first 15 matches.
Although they are currently positioned ninth on the ladder, the Cowboys are well-positioned to contend for a finals spot, with two byes remaining in the latter part of the season.
Recently, Payten indicated that he has actively sought to modify his coaching style after a disappointing 12th-place finish last year.