LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
NRL fans and commentators are expressing concerns about James Tedesco's prospects for the season following a heavy defeat for the Roosters against Brisbane.
The team, under new coach Michael Maguire after Kevin Walters' departure, suffered a 50-point loss that highlighted potential challenges ahead.
The match also saw Victor Radley sustain a severe concussion and Nat Butcher sidelined due to a non-football-related issue, leaving the team further depleted.
Roosters coach Trent Robinson remarked on Radley's importance to the team and the setback his absence poses: "He is concussed...
to lose him quite early was tough." Butcher's unexpected withdrawal was attributed to a recent operation, with Robinson ruling out his return for the upcoming match against the defending premiers.
The team's woes have been exacerbated by the departure of key players and injuries to several others, including Spencer Leniu, Sam Walker, and Brandon Smith.
The departure of experienced players like Luke Keary and Jared Waerea-Hargreaves at the end of the previous season has left Tedesco as one of the few reliable assets for the Roosters.
Despite his efforts during the Brisbane match, the team faced significant challenges on multiple fronts.
NRL enthusiasts are now questioning the team's prospects for the remainder of the year given the mounting setbacks and limited experienced talent available.
Overall, the Roosters find themselves in a precarious situation following the recent developments, with Tedesco bearing the weight of expectations as a senior player.
The team's depth and resilience will be tested as they navigate through a turbulent period marked by departures, injuries, and uncertainties about key players' availability for upcoming fixtures.
As NRL fans collectively voice concerns about Tedesco and the Roosters' outlook, it remains to be seen how the team will respond to the adversity they are currently facing.