St George Illawarra's planned rebuild for 2027 begins with two major recruits: Scott Drinkwater and Keaon Koloamatangi.
Drinkwater, 29, offers the attacking creativity the Dragons lacked during 2026, while Clint Gutherson struggled to match the modern game's demands.
The new fullback is among the NRL's most inventive attackers, although his defence deteriorated as the season progressed.
He repeatedly struggled when left as the final defender, but his overall ability should force Gutherson aside.
Koloamatangi may be the club's most valuable signing. The former South Sydney forward averaged 169.3 metres and recorded 93.1% tackle efficiency.
His experience could strengthen a young pack, though selecting him alongside the Couchman twins and Loko Jnr Pasifiki Tonga will be difficult.
Hamish Stewart and Dylan Egan, both Gerringong juniors, also impressed during a poor campaign and will compete for places.
The Dragons endured their first wooden spoon since merging with Illawarra, winning only five matches in 2026.
Their first victory came against Brisbane in round 13 after Dean Young served as interim coach following Shane Flanagan's dismissal.
Young's side finished with a round-27 win over Parramatta, secured by departing Tyrell Sloan's 42-metre field goal at WIN Stadium.