The Melbourne Storm's challenging start to the season may lead to some significant changes, particularly affecting two key players.
Coach Craig Bellamy finds himself in an unusual position, as he faces the tough task of reevaluating players who have not met the high expectations set by the team's coaching staff amid ongoing losses.
Trent Loiero and Jack Howarth are reportedly feeling the pressure, with the Courier Mail indicating that both are working hard to secure their spots on the roster.
Loiero, despite having played four matches this season, has struggled to replicate the form that earned him a Queensland representative jersey last year.
With an average of just 72 meters per game, opposing teams are identifying the Storm's forward line as a vulnerability, a point highlighted during their recent match against the Warriors.
Howarth is also under scrutiny at the beginning of 2026, as the emerging Queensland under-19s talent needs to elevate his performance.
With Moses Leo positioned as a potential backup, fans should anticipate a more robust showing in the upcoming clash against the Canberra Raiders, particularly after he recorded eleven missed tackles so far this year.
A hip injury sidelined Howarth for Round 5, and it could be hindering his lateral movements, contributing to the team's struggles to keep pace with the Warriors.
While the spotlight is on these two players, the Storm is also facing the threat of enduring their longest losing streak since 2012, which could extend to five matches.