Significant NRL Suspension for Jaydn Su'A Deepens Dragons' Troubles

Shane Flanagan, already under pressure, must now navigate the challenges of his job without star player Jaydn Su'A, who has been handed a three-game suspension by the match review committee.

In a recent match, Su'A made headlines by becoming the first player since 2024 to be sent off after a high shot on Cam Murray, contributing to the Dragons' 30-12 defeat against South Sydney.

This loss marked the 11th consecutive defeat for the Dragons, leaving them facing an uphill battle as they approach a crucial clash against the Sydney Roosters on Anzac Day.

If Su'A accepts the early guilty plea for a grade-three shoulder charge, he will miss not only the Anzac Day game but also subsequent matches against Newcastle and Penrith.

In his absence, Ryan Couchman, who has recently completed a four-game suspension for dangerous contact, along with Jacob Halangahu, could be considered to fill the gap in the second row for the upcoming game.

Su'A's loss is particularly hard for Flanagan, who has relied on the Parramatta recruit as a standout performer during their dismal start to 2026.

During the latter stages of the match, Flanagan was preoccupied and did not thoroughly assess the situation following Su'A's tackle.

"To be honest, I had so many things running through my head and didn't look at it too many times. I saw it happen, it was pretty close in front of me. I'll have to look at it again," he remarked.

Nevertheless, Flanagan is unequivocal about the consequences: another loss equates to heightened pressure for the coaching staff.