Three consecutive home defeats opened Manly's 2026 season and led the board to part ways with Anthony Seibold.
Kieran Foran sparked an unexpected improvement after taking charge, but the Sea Eagles faded late and missed the finals.
They finished around pre-season expectations, although Luke Brooks' injury also affected their campaign.
Jamal Fogarty's first season replacing Daly Cherry-Evans did not go to plan.
With Foran approaching a full season in charge, improving the roster is a priority for 2027.
Brooks is off contract at the end of that season, while 16 players are already secured for 2028.
Lehi Hopoate is among the players likely to be a high priority for renewal, and further deals for young talent will use salary-cap space.
The projected interchange includes Simione Laiafi, Toni Mataele and Davvy Moale, but Manly have no player signed for spots 17, 18 or 19.
Decisions on Ben, Jake and Tom Trbojevic will also be crucial to the club's future squad plans.