In the fourth part of our 2024 NRL depth analysis, sharks.com.au takes a look at the squad's talented back-row stocks.
Edge-forward options
Briton Nikora
Produced arguably his best NRL season in 2023, entrenching himself as Nicho Hynes' strike weapon on the right edge with his damaging hole-running ability. Nikora averaged a career-high 102 run metres per match and scored eight tries last year, earning selection for New Zealand.
Teig Wilton
While he'd already usurped veteran Wade Graham in the pecking order, the captain's retirement is set to give Wilton more responsibility on the left edge. Coming into his fifth year of NRL, the sky is the limit for the former NSW under 20s skipper.
Billy Burns
Having played at the Panthers and Dragons, Burns provides handy depth in the second row. Rangy and agile, the Parkes Spacemen junior also has experience in the centres and knows how to sniff out a try.
Jesse Colquhoun
Although he's primarily played in the middle in his 10 first-grade appearances to date, Colquhoun has shown he is equally adept as a second rower. If injury or suspension strike, he could capably step up on an edge.
Siosifa Talakai
The tackle-busting Talakai has spent the past two seasons at centre, impressing so much that he earned a maiden NSW cap, but started out as a second rower. His versatility gives coach Craig Fitzgibbon plenty of options when deciding the best balance for the team.
Jack Williams
An established force through the middle as an interchange player in recent seasons, the robust Williams is also no stranger to playing life on the edge. The forward is set to notch up his 100th NRL game in round one.
Dylan Coutts
A junior star at the Sea Eagles, the skillful Coutts made the move to the Shire last year. He's eligible for Jersey Flegg for the next couple of years, but the 19-year-old back rower hasn't looked out of place among seasoned NRL players during the pre-season and is one to keep an eye on.
