Dragons coach Dean Young has left the 2027 captaincy undecided, with recruits and Clint Gutherson in contention.
"I'm going to watch closely how everyone trains, behaves and acts before I pick a captain and senior leadership group," Young told News Corp.
He will work with emerging leaders for nine weeks, favouring one captain but staying open to what pre-season reveals.
Gutherson's starting place is uncertain after a mixed 2026 with wooden spooners; in his final contract year, he needs a strong pre-season.
The Dragons plan to use new recruit Scott Drinkwater at fullback, leaving Gutherson a possible centre alongside Daniel Atkinson, Moses Suli and Hayden Buchanan.
After Damien Cook's off-season exit, recruit Keaon Koloamatangi or Kodi Nikorima could lead; Phillip Sami is unlikely, while Luke Metcalf has injury concerns.
Insiders consider Hamish Stewart a future captain, though perhaps not ready, despite his selection as 2026 Dally M back-rower of the year.