LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
The North Queensland Cowboys are considering signing another hooker before the June 30 deadline, with rumors linking them to Jayden Brailey from the Newcastle Knights or Tyson Smoothy from the Brisbane Broncos.
The Cowboys have one spot left in their Top 30 roster and are looking for someone who can provide coverage for Reece Robson during State of Origin time or in case of injury.
Karl Lawton is currently the likely replacement for Robson, but there are other potential options such as development player Zac Herdegen or moving Jake Clifford or Tom Duffy to the hooker role.
The club has already made significant signings in the off-season, including Jaxson Paulo, John Bateman, Kai O'Donnell, and Lawton.
However, they are still looking to solidify their squad before the start of the season.
The Cowboys are set to begin their 2025 NRL season against the Manly Sea Eagles, but the possibility of bringing in another hooker is being considered to strengthen their lineup.
The need for additional depth at the hooker position is evident, and securing Brailey or Smoothy could provide the Cowboys with a permanent back-up option.
While Lawton is currently the frontrunner to replace Robson, having another experienced hooker on the roster would offer more flexibility and security for the team.
As the Cowboys gear up for Round 1, the potential addition of either Brailey or Smoothy adds an interesting dynamic to their preparations for the upcoming season.