Scott Drinkwater could become a valuable asset for the St George Illawarra Dragons, with rugby league legend Andrew Johns deeming a $1 million annual contract for the fullback a “bargain.” The Dragons have had a dismal start to the season, remaining winless, prompting two players to seek early releases and fans to organise large-scale protests against the club’s management.
Despite the Dragons identifying Drinkwater as a top target, their initial offer was turned down, leading them to consider a revised proposal to secure his services. Johns believes the Dragons desperately need a creative player like Drinkwater, who is approaching his peak performance years. He mentioned on Wide World of Sports that acquiring the fullback for three seasons at that price would be a significant gain for George Illawarra fans.
The Dragons’ need for more speed and agility, particularly at fullback, is pressing. While veteran Clint Gutherson is expected to remain with the club, his role may shift by 2027. As one of the most coveted players in the league, Drinkwater has drawn attention from other clubs, including the Perth Bears and various teams in Sydney, making recruitment efforts for him even more challenging, especially given the current turmoil within the Dragons.
The situation worsened with news of young forwards Jayden Su’A and Loko Pasifiki Tonga both seeking exits from the club, despite Tonga being signed until 2028. Drinkwater’s position is further complicated by the Cowboys’ rising star Jaxson Purdue, who is regarded as the long-term solution for their fullback needs, influencing Drinkwater’s decision to look for opportunities elsewhere.
The 28-year-old has been in fine form, recently leading the Cowboys to a four-match winning streak before a disappointing loss to Manly. The combination of his talent and the Dragons’ urgent need for a creative playmaker highlights why securing Drinkwater could be pivotal for the club’s future.