Imagine a rugby league team scrambling to fill the gaps in their backline after key players head for greener pastures—could this be the spark that reignites their season? The Wests Tigers are taking decisive action to bolster their outside backs, and it's got fans buzzing. But here's where it gets interesting: are they making the right call by relying on seasoned veterans from the reserves, or should they be scouting fresh talent? Let's dive into the details and see what this means for the 2026 NRL season.
The Wests Tigers, often referred to as the Tigers in the competitive world of rugby league, have recently inked a deal with a player who has previously donned the jerseys of the Parramatta Eels and the South Sydney Rabbitohs. This signing is all about enhancing their depth in the outside backs—a crucial area that includes positions like wingers and centres, where quick reflexes, strong tackling, and reliable catching under pressure can make or break a game. For beginners in rugby league, think of outside backs as the frontline defenders and attackers who cover the edges of the field, often being the last line of defense or the first to score tries. Depth here is vital because injuries and suspensions are as common as tackles in a heated match, and without adequate backups, a team can quickly crumble.
After bidding farewell to talented players such as Brent Naden, Charlie Staines, Josh Feledy, and Solmona Faataape, the Tigers were on a mission to find versatile cover that could step in seamlessly across multiple backline roles. They've already secured Jack Attard as a reserve fullback—the position at the back who calls the shots for the defense and kicks the ball into play. Now, they've added 25-year-old Max Lehmann to the mix, positioning him to handle centre and wing duties. Lehmann isn't some rookie; he's got years of experience under his belt from playing in the lower tiers, which is like the developmental leagues where players hone their skills before potentially breaking into the big leagues. This background gives him that edge of reliability that every coach dreams of.
And this is the part most people miss: Lehmann's contract mirrors the one Charlie Murray had last year—an NSWRL deal that primarily ties him to the NSW Cup for 2026. For those new to the sport, the NSW Cup is a high-level reserve competition in New South Wales, Australia, where teams play to develop players and compete for their own title. It also includes a few training sessions with the main NRL squad, allowing Lehmann to integrate with the first-grade team and learn from the pros. While he won't be added to the club's elite Top 30 roster or development list right away, he's already been spotted training alongside stars like Maxwell Taotua and Luke Jack during preseason. This setup ensures he's ready to contribute without overwhelming the squad's structure.
Lehmann's journey is a testament to his grit. Over the years, he's ventured overseas to play for the Bradford Bulls in England's Super League, competed in the NSW Cup for both the Parramatta Eels and South Sydney Rabbitohs, and even claimed a QLD Cup premiership with the Brisbane Tigers. The QLD Cup, by the way, is the premier reserve league in Queensland, another stepping stone in the rugby league pyramid. In the 2025 NSW Cup season with the Rabbitohs, he racked up an impressive six tries, along with 18 tackle busts and five line-breaks—stats that highlight his ability to evade defenders and create opportunities. Tackle busts, for example, are those moments where a player breaks through an opponent's grasp, and line-breaks are when they penetrate the defensive line, often leading to scoring chances. After that stellar campaign, Lehmann switched to the Manly League, where he played a starring role in securing the Sydney Shield title—a competition that showcases emerging talent in the Greater Sydney area.
Now, here's the controversial bit: Is bringing in experienced players from the lower grades the smart move for a team like the Tigers, who are always striving for NRL glory? Some fans argue it's a no-brainer—why reinvent the wheel when you can plug in someone who's already proven themselves? But others might question if this approach stifles young, hungry rookies who could bring fresh energy and long-term potential. After all, isn't the NRL about innovation and discovering the next big star? What do you think—should teams prioritize tried-and-tested depth over unproven youth, or is there a better balance?
Do you agree with the Tigers' strategy, or do you see it as a gamble that might not pay off? Share your thoughts in the comments below—let's discuss!
