Kyle Flanagan’s future as the St George Illawarra halfback appears uncertain, with the club’s CEO, Tim Watsford, announcing that Flanagan was never intended to be the primary No.7. During a recent appearance on the Dragons Den podcast, Watsford stated that Flanagan’s role was initially viewed as more of a utility option, rather than an elite starting halfback, revealing plans to hand that key position to 24-year-old Daniel Atkinson for 2026.
Flanagan, who was brought to the Dragons by his father Shane, the team’s head coach, has faced criticism for his performance. This season, he has only managed to record four try assists in 14 games, leading to dissatisfaction among fans, especially when comparing his form to that of reserve-grade players like Lachlan Ilias and Jonah Glover, who recently signed with the South Sydney Rabbitohs. The competition for the starting halfback role is set to intensify as Ilias, Flanagan, and young talent Lyhkan King-Togia vie for positions in the lineup.
Watsford indicated that Atkinson’s signing from the Sharks would change the team dynamics, stating, "Kyle is there fulfilling a role for 2025… We’re in the market for a marquee halfback—fact." He clarified that there is a misconception about Flanagan being drafted in as a front-line halfback, emphasising that he is performing the role assigned to him adequately.
As the Dragons strategise for the future, the prospect of finding an elite halfback in the current NRL market looks challenging. While experienced player Daly Cherry-Evans is set to leave Manly, he is rumoured to join the Roosters, making options scarce for the Dragons. With Atkinson set to take on the starting halfback role and King-Togia positioned as five-eighth for the upcoming season, Flanagan’s inclusion in the team for 2026 remains uncertain, despite his contract extending into 2027.
Overall, the upcoming changes signal a significant shift within the Dragons’ halfback strategy, as they move forward with plans that are markedly different from the previous year’s setup.