Imagine a player so dynamic, so versatile, that they could single-handedly shift the momentum of a game. That’s exactly what Tyrell Sloan, the unsigned Dragons speedster, represents for St George Illawarra this season. But here’s where it gets controversial: while some see him as a game-changer, others question whether his off-contract status will distract from his on-field impact. With the NRL’s new six-player bench rule, Sloan’s role as the team’s X-factor has never been more critical—or more debated.
Sloan, alongside recruits like David Fale and potentially Mat Feagai, is poised to be a key figure when the Dragons face Canterbury on March 1. The expanded bench rule allows coaches to strategically deploy players based on injuries or game situations, and Sloan’s versatility as a fullback, winger, or even centre makes him an ideal candidate for those high-stakes moments. Coach Shane Flanagan has hinted that teams will likely favor specialists in bench spots 18 and 19, which could mean more regular playtime for Sloan than initially expected. And this is the part most people miss: Sloan’s dedication is so strong that he even skipped the Indigenous All Stars to focus on trial matches, proving his commitment to securing a spot.
Flanagan praises Sloan’s adaptability, saying, ‘If it’s late in the game and you need points, you’d just tell ‘Sloany’ to go on and chance your arm a bit.’ His post-Christmas training has been exceptional, solidifying his case for a starting role. But here’s the kicker: while the Bulldogs are gunning for a top-four finish, bookmakers have the Dragons in a three-way battle for the wooden spoon alongside the Gold Coast and Newcastle. Ouch.
The team’s recent Charity Shield loss to a second-string South Sydney squad didn’t exactly boost confidence, but Flanagan remains optimistic. He acknowledges the Dragons’ misfortune in narrowly losing games last season—games that could have propelled them up the ladder. With eight debutants last year, the experience gained should pay dividends in 2026. Here’s a thought-provoking question: Is this the year the Dragons finally turn close losses into wins, or will their young squad struggle to find consistency?
Flanagan admits the trials were a mixed bag, with players cautious about injuries ahead of the Las Vegas trip. Now that they’re stateside, the focus is on keeping the squad healthy and fielding their best lineup week after week. New recruit Daniel Atkinson will partner Kyle Flanagan in the halves, while young half Kade Reed—though not Vegas-bound—is seen as a player with enormous potential. Back-rower Dylan Egan, still rehabbing from an ACL injury, made a surprise trip to Vegas to continue his recovery with the team and assist with media duties.
So, what do you think? Is Tyrell Sloan the missing piece for St George Illawarra, or is the team’s success still too dependent on unproven talent? Let’s hear your take in the comments—this debate is far from over.
