Broncos centre Kotoni Staggs has put his NRL rivals on notice, declaring Selwyn Cobbo’s shift from the wing would unlock a new dynamic in Brisbane’s backline.
So much so, the Kangaroos strike weapon believed his teammate would be quick to heap pressure on incumbent Queensland Maroons Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow and Valentine Holmes.
With the Knights losing a star winger in Dom Young, former Panther Tom Jenkins is expected to slot into the starting side, however he is inexperienced.
The Knights expect to rely on Armstrong this season. He can play fullback and wing, so will be an option if Jenkins struggles early in the season.
The 22-year-old may also be required if the likes of Kalyn Ponga and Bradman Best are unavailable due to Origin commitments.
Veteran centre Dane Gagai is reportedly yet to begin extension talks with the Knights, leaving him without a contract past the 2024 season.
Centre partner Bradman Best is set to re-sign a bumper deal worth upwards of $2 million for three further seasons at the Hunter club.
However, Knights football director Peter Parr explained Gagai’s form in the early stages of next season will decide whether he earns a new contract.
“Like a number of players at the club, we’d probably like to see Dane play a bit of football first,” Parr said to the Newcastle Herald.
“So that’s my expectation at this stage, unless his agent was to approach the club about starting talks earlier.
“I don’t see it as being a lot different to Tyson Frizell 12 months ago.
“He was happy to play some footy, see what the form is like, see what the body is like, and see what transpires after that.
“I haven’t had that conversation with Dane yet, or his agent, but I’m sure we’ll have it at some stage, when the timing is appropriate.”
Gagai has played 268 NRL games since making his debut in 2011, plying his trade for the Knights, Broncos and Rabbitohs.
Elsewhere the Knights have a long list of players who are without contracts past 2024, including Mat Croker, Tyson Gamble, Enari Tuala and Krystian Mapapalangi.
