The Sydney Roosters are nearing the return of three vital players just as they prepare for the critical stage of their season, following Sam Walker's serious injury.
Daniel Tupou, Victor Radley, and Angus Crichton are making progress and could return for their final regular-season game against South Sydney before the finals begin.
Tupou seems the most likely to play against the Rabbitohs on Friday night after a month out due to a dislocated shoulder, while Radley is also expected to feature.
The experienced winger resumed training on Monday, and if given the green light, he could allow Billy Smith to move back into the centers for the Round 27 match.
Radley is hopeful to return after missing the last two games due to a concussion sustained against the Wests Tigers, having participated in Monday's training session as he aims to reclaim his spot in the lineup and help the Roosters avoid a third straight loss.
Crichton's comeback is anticipated to take a bit longer, as he targets the first week of the finals following foot surgery that has kept him out since June.
Nonetheless, he trained on Monday and may still have a chance of returning this week.
The timing of their potential returns comes after a significant setback, with Walker suffering a syndesmosis injury during Saturday night's 26-12 loss to the Dolphins.
After undergoing surgery on Sunday, Walker faces a race against time to return this season, compelling the Roosters to prepare for the possibility of entering the finals without their key halfback.
Hugo Savala is likely to partner Daly Cherry-Evans in a restructured halves arrangement against South Sydney, making the return of the experienced trio crucial in alleviating pressure off the new combination.
With Tupou back on the wing, Smith can move back to his favorite center position, possibly recreating the same backline the Roosters utilized during their 2024 finals run when Walker was out due to an ACL injury.
While Walker's absence is a major setback to their championship aspirations, the presence of Tedesco last week, along with Tupou, Radley, and Crichton nearing returns, might provide the much-needed support as they head into September.
Despite doubts following Walker's injury, the Roosters' roster could be close to full strength by finals time, leaving them with ample talent to silence their critics.