The North Queensland Cowboys are gearing up for a groundbreaking season, but will they buck the odds in Las Vegas? The Cowboys are set to make their NRL debut, but the pressure is on after a lackluster 2025. A loss to Newcastle in the season opener would be a devastating blow.
The Cowboys are favorites, but several factors raise concerns. Young star Tom Chester's ACL injury and Griffin Neame's potential absence leave gaps in the lineup. The team's defense is also a worry, having conceded a staggering 684 points last season.
The middle unit is a particular area of concern with Jordan McLean's retirement, Neame's injury, and Jason Taumalolo's advancing age. However, Bulldogs recruit Reed Mahoney could be the answer at hooker, bringing much-needed energy to the team.
Mahoney's arrival, replacing Reece Robson, might just be the spark the Cowboys need. His agility and gamesmanship can propel the team forward and unsettle opponents. With Jake Clifford securing the No.6 jumper, the Cowboys have a solid chance to exceed expectations.
But here's where it gets interesting:
Key Acquisitions: Matthew Lodge, Reed Mahoney, and James Walsh bring fresh talent to the squad.
Notable Departures: Tom Duffy, Karl Lawton, and Reece Robson are among those leaving, creating a void to be filled.
Best Buy: Reed Mahoney is the wildcard. His ability to read the game and create gaps is exceptional, offering more offensive tricks than his predecessor, Robson.
X-Factor: Scott Drinkwater must step up to lead the Cowboys' resurgence. His try assists are among the league's best, and his partnership with Tom Dearden could be game-changing.
Biggest Question Mark: The front line needs reinforcement. With aging veterans and injuries, the Cowboys need young talent like Kaiden Lahrs to step up and restore the team's fear factor.
2025 Finish: 12th
Predicted 2026 Finish: 15th
Round One Starting Lineup:
- Scott Drinkwater
- Murray Taulagi
- Jaxon Purdue
- Viliami Vailea
- Robert Derby
- Jake Clifford
- Tom Dearden
- Jason Taumalolo
- Reed Mahoney
- Coen Hess
- John Bateman
- Jeremiah Nanai
- Reuben Cotter
Interchange:
- Kai O'Donnell
- Heilum Luki
- Thomas Mikaele
- Sam McIntyre
- Braidon Burns
- Kaiden Lahrs
Odds to Win: $34
The Cowboys' journey in Las Vegas is filled with both promise and uncertainty. Will they rise to the challenge or succumb to the pressure? Only time will tell. What do you think? Is this the year the Cowboys defy the odds, or will they fall short in Sin City?
