LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
NRL veteran Scott Sattler predicts that either Tyson Smoothy from the Broncos or Jayden Brailey from the Knights will likely join the Cowboys before the June 30 deadline to provide cover for star hooker Reece Robson during the State of Origin period.
Sattler highlighted the lack of a genuine back-up hooker in the Cowboys' squad, indicating that either Smoothy or Brailey could fill the void left by Robson's potential absence.
Brailey, who has been sidelined at Newcastle, is reportedly being considered by the Cowboys as he looks for a new opportunity.
Smoothy, on the other hand, has already secured a deal with Wakefield in the English Super League for 2026 after finding himself surplus to requirements at the Broncos under new coach Michael Maguire.
Sattler shared his insights on SEN radio, stating, "I'm hearing Tyson Smoothy or Jayden Brailey to the Cows before June 30.
If Robson goes down or is selected for Origin there's no-one there who has any experience." His co-host noted that Smoothy's potential departure could create financial flexibility for the Broncos to re-sign young talents Selwyn Cobbo and Kotoni Staggs.
Staggs is reportedly close to finalizing a lucrative contract extension worth $2 million, while Cobbo's future remains uncertain.
The Cowboys, aiming to strengthen their squad before the upcoming deadline, are actively pursuing options to bolster their hooking depth in anticipation of Robson's potential absence.
With Smoothy and Brailey identified as potential candidates to join the club, the focus is on securing an experienced player who can seamlessly step into the role if needed.
As the NRL landscape continues to evolve with player movements and contract negotiations, the Cowboys are poised to make a strategic move to address their roster needs.