I am not changing my decision and ruling of yesterday. It would be too disruptive and cause mayhem to try to reverse players 24 hours after the decision was made.
Regarding Mr B's precedent from round 4 - that was an oversight and not something I applied my mind to and made a ruling on so I do not accept it was a precedent. Secondly if i was going to do anything about that mistake I made in Round 4 the option I would consider would be retrospectively 8 rounds later giving that player to the second highest bidder. I would never consider continuing a breaking of the rules based on a mistake and oversight I made in the past.
However, I accept it was a not a nice outcome for Mr B and Muddogz.
Green cards do no good at this stage of the game so I am awarding them each $100K to add to their war chests effectively immediately.
This is my final decision. No further correspondence will be allowed to be entered into the judgement.
"We don't just represent players. We manipulate entire competitions." - Chris Hodges, probably after his third wine
DOCUMENT STATUS: TOP SECRET For internal Hodges Agency use only. If you're reading this, someone definitely left their laptop open at the pub again.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
After eleven grueling rounds of psychological warfare, questionable rule interpretations, and enough essay writing to qualify for a Masters degree, we approach the Final Round. The battlefield is littered with empty war chests and broken dreams. Mr. Brownstone looked unbeatable - until the $5K bid increment rule exposed him as mortal.
FINAL ROUND PARAMETERS:
Letter "B" surnames eligible
ALL remaining Hodges Agency players available
ALL remaining 2025 NRL players available
No interventions - Chris Hodges is feeling generous (or blocked from issuing interventions)
CRITICAL INTEL: This is the last opportunity to address glaring roster deficiencies. Any team without a recognized goal kicker will be publicly shamed for eternity.
OVERHEARD IN THE HODGES AGENCY OFFICES Actual quotes. Definitely not made up. Our intern takes very detailed notes.
NOTABLE CONTROVERSIES & INCIDENTS A comprehensive timeline of chaos
THE GREAT PLAYER EXODUS (Round 7)
Cameron Smith, Jonathan Thurston, and Matt Scott attempted to leave Wizard's team mid-contract. Wizard accused Chris Hodges of orchestrating a coup. A Lamborghini intended for Hodges was redirected to Isaac Moses. Legal threats were exchanged. It was beautiful chaos.
THE $10K INCREMENT WAR
Mr. Brownstone's $5K bid was rejected for violating the $10K minimum increment rule. Brownstone argued "precedent was set" when earlier $5K bids were accepted. The forum nearly descended into constitutional crisis over five thousand imaginary dollars.
THE STAGGS GOAL-KICKING TRIBUNAL
Defence selected Kotoni Staggs as goal kicker. Wrighty challenged this, noting Staggs had only 100 attempts in 8 years. Defence argued 82% accuracy. Wrighty threatened forfeit of Herbie Farnworth. The situation remains... unresolved.
THE COREY PARKER APPRECIATION POST
Chris Hodges called Corey Parker "woeful." Wizard demanded a 200-word apology or Parker would leave Hodges' stable for Isaac Moses. The apology was never written. Parker cries to this day.
THE TODD CARNEY SOCIAL MEDIA POLICY
Mr. Brownstone was forced to write a comprehensive social media policy for Todd Carney. It specifically addressed: "bubbling" (permitted as environmentally friendly), bathroom selfies (banned), and "human centipede replication" (extremely banned).
THE SCHEDULED POST MISHAP
Chris Hodges forgot to schedule the round-closing announcement. "Sorry guys forgot to schedule it" became the most honest statement in the competition's history.
THE BMX DEFENCE
Defence missed a bid increment rule because he was filming his son's BMX tricks. This is somehow the most wholesome controversy of the competition.
REMAINING HODGES AGENCY STABLE The legends who somehow slipped through the cracks
PLAYER
POSITION
PROJECTED VALUE
AGENCY NOTES
Danny Buderus
Hooker
$800K-$1.2M
The white whale. Muddogz has been hunting him since Round 3
Sam Burgess
Lock/Second Row
$1.2M-$1.8M
English accent. Questionable shoulder. Undeniable X-factor
Matt Bowen
Fullback
$400K-$600K
The human pinball. Could cover fullback or wing cheaply
Preston Campbell
Fullback/Five-eighth
$300K-$450K
Pocket rocket. Criminally underrated utility
Hazem El Masri
Wing/Centre
$350K-$500K
GOAT goal kicker. If you need a kicker, here's your man
Brett Stewart
Fullback
$600K-$900K
Prime-era was elite. Hamstrings made of tissue paper
Darius Boyd
Fullback/Wing/Centre
$400K-$600K
Three premierships. Versatility personified
Trent Barrett
Five-eighth
$500K-$700K
Origin legend. Coaching career we don't discuss
Nathan Blacklock
Wing
$300K-$400K
Electric. Score tries, drop balls. The full package
Ben Barba
Fullback
$500K-$750K
Dally M winner. Off-field issues. Prime-era was sensational
Scott Prince
Halfback
$400K-$600K
Titans legend. Handy backup half option
Greg Bird
Second Row/Lock
$450K-$650K
Origin enforcer. Glassware enthusiast
Jesse Bromwich
Prop
$500K-$750K
Storm premiership prop. Brother is apparently better
FRANCHISE POWER RANKINGS Updated post-Round 11
#1. MR. BROWNSTONE'S IMMORTALS War Chest: $1.225M | Squad Size: 16 | Threat Level:EXTREME
Position
Player
Cost
FB
James Tedesco
$1.01M
W
Roger Tuivasa-Sheck
$200K
C
Latrell Mitchell
$820K
C
Daniel Tupou
$240K
HB
Darren Lockyer
$3.35M
FE
Cooper Cronk
$3.05M
PR
Adrian Morley
$820K
HK
Damian Cook
$410K
PR
Joseph Tapine
$1.1M
SR
Nathan Hindmarsh
$700K
SR
Eliesa Katoa
$750K
LK
Isaah Yeo
$600K
INT
Brett Kimmorley
$125K
INT
Stefano Utoikamanu
$200K
INT
Xavier Willison
$200K
INT
Keaon Koloamatangi
$200K
AGENCY ASSESSMENT:
OPTIMAL TOP 17:
Code:
1. James Tedesco (FB)
2. Daniel Tupou (W)
3. Latrell Mitchell (C)
4. Roger Tuivasa-Sheck (C)
5. [NEED - Target: Blacklock/2025 winger]
6. Darren Lockyer (FE)
7. Cooper Cronk (HB)
8. Adrian Morley (PR)
9. Damian Cook (HK)
10. Joseph Tapine (PR)
11. Nathan Hindmarsh (SR)
12. Eliesa Katoa (SR)
13. Isaah Yeo (LK)
14. Brett Kimmorley (INT)
15. Stefano Utoikamanu (INT)
16. Xavier Willison (INT)
17. Keaon Koloamatangi (INT)
CAPTAIN: Darren Lockyer (Three-time premiership winner, Immortal)
GOAL KICKER: Darren Lockyer (Career 313/430 - 72.8%)
FINAL ROUND TARGETS:
Nathan Blacklock - $300K would solve the winger problem
Dylan Brown - Utility playmaker depth
Jesse Bromwich - Prop depth if affordable
VERDICT:CONTENDER. A solid roster with genuine quality in the spine. Still needs a proper winger and could use more depth. The Immortals in the halves are quality, but the $5K bid increment debacle showed Brownstone isn't infallible. Watch this space.
WATER COOLER GOSSIP:
Was cruising to an uncontested championship until he discovered the $5K bid increment rule exists. "PRECEDENT WAS SET!" echoes through the halls to this day.
Spent more energy arguing about $5,000 than most teams spent on actual strategy. The Herbie Farnworth Incident will be studied in forum law schools.
"Why do automated software updates always make things worse!!" - Brownstone, after his scheduled bid failed
The Cooper Cronk Match Day Prep Routine essay is now required reading at Hodges Agency. It includes Enya meditation and the mantra "process over outcome."
Defence called him "#BrownstonesBroncos" - the nickname has stuck in the office
Somehow wrote THREE essays for Warriors55's fines while also winning bidding wars. Multitasking king.
"The $5K increment rule finally caught up with him. Couldn't have happened to a nicer guy." - Everyone else
COACH'S BOX - AGENCY ANALYSIS:
#2. GUS'S WIZARDS (WIZARD OF TAURANGA) War Chest: $50K | Squad Size: 18 | Threat Level:HIGH
Position
Player
Cost
FB
Karmichael Hunt
$200K
W
Zac Lomax
$250K
C
Stephen Crichton
$710K
C
Clinton Toopi
$200K
W
Jamayne Isaako
$200K
FE
Ezra Mam
$200K
HB
Jonathan Thurston
$4M
PR
Spencer Leniu
$280K
HK
Cameron Smith
$5M
PR
Matt Scott
$800K
SR
Corey Parker
$410K
SR
Isaiah Papali'i
$300K
LK
Erin Clarke
$400K
INT
Jordan McLean
$200K
INT
Daniel Saifiti
$200K
INT
Leka Halasima
$550K
INT
Ben Murdoch-Masila
$200K
INT
Kurt Capewell
$200K
AGENCY ASSESSMENT:
OPTIMAL TOP 17:
Code:
1. Karmichael Hunt (FB) - pray for us
2. Zac Lomax (W)
3. Stephen Crichton (C)
4. Clinton Toopi (C)
5. Jamayne Isaako (W)
6. Ezra Mam (FE)
7. Jonathan Thurston (HB)
8. Spencer Leniu (PR)
9. Cameron Smith (HK)
10. Matt Scott (PR)
11. Corey Parker (SR)
12. Isaiah Papali'i (SR)
13. Erin Clarke (LK)
14. Kurt Capewell (INT)
15. Jordan McLean (INT)
16. Daniel Saifiti (INT)
17. Leka Halasima (INT)
CAPTAIN: Cameron Smith (Most games ever, Origin legend)
GOAL KICKER: Jonathan Thurston (Career 913/1104 - 82.7%)
FINAL ROUND TARGETS:
Reality check - $50K means you're shopping at the discount bin
Sione Katoa - $10K meme option
Anyone with a "B" surname who costs less than $50K
VERDICT:HIGH CEILING, CONCERNING FLOOR. JT and Cam Smith could carry a team of traffic cones to respectability. Whether they can overcome the holes around them is the $9M question.
WATER COOLER GOSSIP:
"We made Cam Smith the player he is today!" - actual quote during The Great Exodus
Promised Chris Hodges a Lamborghini. Redirected it to Isaac Moses. Savage.
First to complete a team. Forgot the game was about rankings, not finishing first.
"$145k would have been funnier" - Wizard, after Hodges gave him a $5K bonus
Still waiting on that $250K Cameron Smith fine to be paid. Interest is accruing.
Karmichael Hunt was displaced by Motu Tony. Let that sink in.
1. Tom Trbojevic (FB)
2. Xavier Coates (W)
3. Justin Hodges (C)
4. [NEED - Target: Darius Boyd/Preston Campbell]
5. Brian To'o (W)
6. Ryan Girdler (FE)
7. Adam Reynolds (HB)
8. Payne Haas (PR)
9. Harry Grant (HK)
10. Josh Papalii (PR)
11. Viliame Kikau (SR)
12. Ben Kennedy (SR)
13. Gordon Tallis (LK)
14. Simon Mannering (INT)
15. Craig Gower (INT)
16. Scott Sorensen (INT)
17. [NEED - utility/prop]
CAPTAIN: Gordon Tallis (Origin captain, enforcer)
GOAL KICKER: Adam Reynolds (Career 697/830 - 84%)
FINAL ROUND TARGETS:
Danny Buderus - Elite hooker depth
Darius Boyd - Versatile outside back
Sam Burgess - Would complete an absurdly strong pack
Dylan Brown - Five-eighth upgrade
VERDICT:DARK HORSE FOR THE TITLE. The forward pack alone could win games. If Turbo stays healthy (massive if), this team becomes terrifying. The halves are the one question mark.
WATER COOLER GOSSIP:
The Craig Gower Character Reference is legendary: "upstanding citizen when sober... puppetry of the penis after six beers"
"Dylan Brown deserved the 2025 Golden Boot" - Cces, If only the year 2025 counted.
Pushed Defence all the way to $1.3M for Brad Fittler. Knew exactly what he was doing.
Picked up Craig Gower for $250K after the infamous "double pipping" incident
Defence came back from lunch to find he'd lost two bidding wars. Cces does not take lunch breaks.
1. Reece Walsh (FB) - 2025 DALLY M WINNER
2. Jason Saab (W)
3. Mark Gasnier (C)
4. Joseph Manu (C)
5. Valentine Holmes (W)
6. Benji Marshall (FE)
7. Daly Cherry-Evans (HB)
8. Lindsay Collins (PR)
9. Craig Wing (HK)
10. Regan Campbell-Gillard (PR)
11. Angus Crichton (SR)
12. Sonny Bill Williams (SR)
13. Victor Radley (LK)
14. Kalyn Ponga (INT) - utility god
15. Tom Dearden (INT) - halves cover
16. Taniela Paseka (INT)
17. [NEED - prop/forward depth]
CAPTAIN: Daly Cherry-Evans (Former Maroons captain)
GOAL KICKER: Valentine Holmes (Career 192/243 - 79%)
FINAL ROUND TARGETS:
Jesse Bromwich - Desperately need a big prop
Danny Buderus - Hooker upgrade
Sam Burgess - Would transform the pack
VERDICT:WILL SCORE POINTS, MIGHT CONCEDE MORE. This team will produce highlight reels. Whether they can actually defend is another question entirely. Classic "won the off-season" vibes.
WATER COOLER GOSSIP:
Communication style: 90% reaction GIFs, 10% actual words. Respectable.
Benji + SBW reunion. The 2011 nostalgia is STRONG with this one.
Craig Fitzgibbon was drafted. As a player. In 2026. Bold.
Has Kalyn Ponga AND Tom Dearden on the bench. What is depth management?
The backline is so stacked that genuine Origin players can't crack the starting 13.
VERDICT:COMPLETE ROSTER. Already has 17 players and a terrifying forward pack. The winger spot is the only question mark, but this team will compete through sheer intimidation.
1. Greg Inglis (FB)
2. Dane Gagai (W)
3. Israel Folau (C)
4. [NEED - centre/wing]
5. [NEED - winger - CRITICAL]
6. Kieran Foran (FE)
7. Andrew Johns (HB)
8. Moses Leota (PR)
9. Api Koroisau (HK)
10. Andrew Fifita (PR)
11. Ali Lauiti'iti (SR)
12. Steve Menzies (SR)
13. Paul Gallen (LK)
14. Tino Faasuamaleaui (INT)
15. Jake Trbojevic (INT)
16. Naufahu Whyte (INT)
17. Jayden Su'a (INT)
CAPTAIN: Paul Gallen (NSW Origin captain)
GOAL KICKER: Andrew Johns (Career 781/1051 - 74.3%)
FINAL ROUND TARGETS:
ANY WINGER - This is critical. Nathan Blacklock, Matt Bowen, anyone
Darius Boyd - Could cover wing/centre
Ben Barba - Another outside back option
VERDICT:ONE SIGNING AWAY FROM CONTENTION. Joey and GI are elite. But playing with 12 men because you forgot to buy a winger is not ideal. Priority #1: WINGER.
1. Billy Slater (FB)
2. Lote Tuqiri (W)
3. Kotoni Staggs (C)
4. Herbie Farnworth (C)
5. Wendell Sailor (W)
6. Brad Fittler (FE)
7. Cameron Munster (HB)
8. James Fisher-Harris (PR)
9. Brandon Smith (HK)
10. Siosiua Taukeiaho (PR)
11. Jeremiah Nanai (SR)
12. Hudson Young (SR)
13. Patrick Carrigan (LK)
14. Jerome Hughes (INT)
15. Nicho Hynes (INT) - GOAL KICKER
16. Haumole Olakau'atu (INT)
17. Tony Williams (INT) - vibes only
CAPTAIN: Brad Fittler (Origin legend)
GOAL KICKER: Nicho Hynes (Career 220/275 - 80%) or Kotoni Staggs (82% in limited attempts)
FINAL ROUND TARGETS:
Hazem El Masri - Solves the goal kicking issue PERMANENTLY
Jesse Bromwich - Prop depth
Greg Bird - Edge forward upgrade
VERDICT:BETTER THAN IT LOOKS ON PAPER. The spine is genuine quality. If Defence is still in the game after the Staggs controversy, this team could cause problems. Buy El Masri and end the goal kicking debate forever.
1. Anthony Minichiello (FB)
2. Alex Johnston (W)
3. Ronaldo Mulitalo (C)
4. Brent Tate (C)
5. Mark Nawaqanitawase (W)
6. Todd Carney (FE)
7. Stacey Jones (HB)
8. Shane Webcke (PR)
9. Ben Hunt (HK)
10. Ruben Wiki (PR)
11. David Fifita (SR)
12. Luke Lewis (SR)
13. Jason Taumalolo (LK)
14. Isaac Luke (INT)
15. Liam Martin (INT)
16. Cameron Murray (INT)
17. Terrell May (INT)
CAPTAIN: Stacey Jones (Warriors legend)
GOAL KICKER: Ben Hunt (Career 24/32 - 75%) or need to acquire
FINAL ROUND TARGETS:
Hazem El Masri - Reliable goal kicker
Darius Boyd - Versatile outside back
Trent Barrett - Five-eighth upgrade option
VERDICT:HEART OVER HEAD. This roster was built by a true Warriors fan. The forward pack can match anyone. The backs need work. But you can't measure intangibles like having Stacey Jones in the halves.
WATER COOLER GOSSIP:
COACH'S BOX - AGENCY ANALYSIS:
#9. MUDDOGZ XIII War Chest: $2.7M | Squad Size: 12 | Threat Level:MODERATE (but improving)
VERDICT:ALL OR NOTHING. The halves are elite. The war chest is huge. But without a hooker, this team is a sports car without an engine. The final round will make or break Muddogz's entire campaign.
WATER COOLER GOSSIP:
COACH'S BOX - AGENCY ANALYSIS:
FINAL ROUND BIDDING STRATEGY
PLAYERS TO WATCH - ALPHABETICAL BY SURNAME
"B" SURNAME ELIGIBLE:
Sam Burgess - The biggest name available. Expect $1.5M+ bidding war
Danny Buderus - Muddogz NEEDS him. Others might bid to block
Matt Bowen - Sneaky good value at $400-600K
Ben Barba - Elite but controversial. Could go cheap
Greg Bird - Solid second row option
Jesse Bromwich - Quality prop depth
Nathan Blacklock - Winger solution for Ryno
Darius Boyd - Versatile outside back
Trent Barrett - Five-eighth option
ALL OTHER REMAINING HODGES AGENCY:
Preston Campbell - Utility value
Hazem El Masri - GOAT goal kicker
Brett Stewart - Fullback depth
Scott Prince - Halfback backup
2025 NRL PLAYERS OF NOTE:
Dylan Brown - 2025 GOLDEN BOOT WINNER - Elite five-eighth value (if you only account for 2025 and 2025 alone)
Lachy Galvin - Utility
Various minimum wage options - For cap management
WAR CHEST ANALYSIS
TEAM
WAR CHEST
SQUAD SIZE
CRITICAL NEEDS
SPENDING POWER
Muddogz XIII
$2.7M
12
HOOKER, depth x4
MAXIMUM
Cces
$1.71M
15
Centre, depth x2
HIGH
Apex Predators
$1.45M
16
Prop, hooker
HIGH
Mr. Brownstone
$1.225M
16
Winger
MODERATE
Warriors55
$980K
19
Centre, kicker
MODERATE
Northern Rynos
$505K
16
WINGER x2
LIMITED
Defence
$470K
17
Goal kicker clarity
LIMITED
Wrighty
$325K
17
Winger upgrade
MINIMAL
Gus's Wizards
$50K
18
Fullback ideally
NONE
<section redacted>
AGENCY FINAL RECOMMENDATIONS
DOCUMENT CLASSIFICATION: EXTREMELY LEAKED
This document was definitely not left on a USB drive at the Tauranga Golf Club. Wizard swears he didn't see anything.
Hodges Agency - Est. 1998
"Your career. Our commission."
All player valuations are subjective and definitely not influenced by
which managers bought me drinks at the Christmas party.
As mentioned tomorrow's final round is B and any player not taken before. Chris Hodges has kindly provided a list in his post of the players in this stable not yet taken.
As a courtesy to other players who are trying to complete their rosters is it is requested you try not to gesumpt people at 5.14pm with your opening bid. If you outbid them earlier in the day it gives that other person the choice of pivoting to a new target player. This is advice is optional and not compulsory but it gives everyone the best chance of completing their 17. Hope that advice makes sense.
I am not changing my decision and ruling of yesterday. It would be too disruptive and cause mayhem to try to reverse players 24 hours after the decision was made.
Regarding Mr B's precedent from round 4 - that was an oversight and not something I applied my mind to and made a ruling on so I do not accept it was a precedent. Secondly if i was going to do anything about that mistake I made in Round 4 the option I would consider would be retrospectively 8 rounds later giving that player to the second highest bidder. I would never consider continuing a breaking of the rules based on a mistake and oversight I made in the past.
However, I accept it was a not a nice outcome for Mr B and Muddogz.
Green cards do no good at this stage of the game so I am awarding them each $100K to add to their war chests effectively immediately.
This is my final decision. No further correspondence will be allowed to be entered into the judgement.
Regarding your description Chris Hodges of my three hookers.
I picked Mcinnis as a lock forward and only counted two hookers; considered Farah as my primary hooker and mahoney as my back up.
If I succeed in getting one more player then I will listen to your feedback though and drop Mahoney to 18th man.
"We don't just represent players. We manipulate entire competitions." - Chris Hodges, probably after his third wine
DOCUMENT STATUS: TOP SECRET For internal Hodges Agency use only. If you're reading this, someone definitely left their laptop open at the pub again.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
After eleven grueling rounds of psychological warfare, questionable rule interpretations, and enough essay writing to qualify for a Masters degree, we approach the Final Round. The battlefield is littered with empty war chests and broken dreams. Mr. Brownstone looked unbeatable - until the $5K bid increment rule exposed him as mortal.
FINAL ROUND PARAMETERS:
Letter "B" surnames eligible
ALL remaining Hodges Agency players available
ALL remaining 2025 NRL players available
No interventions - Chris Hodges is feeling generous (or blocked from issuing interventions)
CRITICAL INTEL: This is the last opportunity to address glaring roster deficiencies. Any team without a recognized goal kicker will be publicly shamed for eternity.
OVERHEARD IN THE HODGES AGENCY OFFICES Actual quotes. Definitely not made up. Our intern takes very detailed notes.
NOTABLE CONTROVERSIES & INCIDENTS A comprehensive timeline of chaos
THE GREAT PLAYER EXODUS (Round 7)
Cameron Smith, Jonathan Thurston, and Matt Scott attempted to leave Wizard's team mid-contract. Wizard accused Chris Hodges of orchestrating a coup. A Lamborghini intended for Hodges was redirected to Isaac Moses. Legal threats were exchanged. It was beautiful chaos.
THE $10K INCREMENT WAR
Mr. Brownstone's $5K bid was rejected for violating the $10K minimum increment rule. Brownstone argued "precedent was set" when earlier $5K bids were accepted. The forum nearly descended into constitutional crisis over five thousand imaginary dollars.
THE STAGGS GOAL-KICKING TRIBUNAL
Defence selected Kotoni Staggs as goal kicker. Wrighty challenged this, noting Staggs had only 100 attempts in 8 years. Defence argued 82% accuracy. Wrighty threatened forfeit of Herbie Farnworth. The situation remains... unresolved.
THE COREY PARKER APPRECIATION POST
Chris Hodges called Corey Parker "woeful." Wizard demanded a 200-word apology or Parker would leave Hodges' stable for Isaac Moses. The apology was never written. Parker cries to this day.
THE TODD CARNEY SOCIAL MEDIA POLICY
Mr. Brownstone was forced to write a comprehensive social media policy for Todd Carney. It specifically addressed: "bubbling" (permitted as environmentally friendly), bathroom selfies (banned), and "human centipede replication" (extremely banned).
THE SCHEDULED POST MISHAP
Chris Hodges forgot to schedule the round-closing announcement. "Sorry guys forgot to schedule it" became the most honest statement in the competition's history.
THE BMX DEFENCE
Defence missed a bid increment rule because he was filming his son's BMX tricks. This is somehow the most wholesome controversy of the competition.
REMAINING HODGES AGENCY STABLE The legends who somehow slipped through the cracks
PLAYER
POSITION
PROJECTED VALUE
AGENCY NOTES
Danny Buderus
Hooker
$800K-$1.2M
The white whale. Muddogz has been hunting him since Round 3
Sam Burgess
Lock/Second Row
$1.2M-$1.8M
English accent. Questionable shoulder. Undeniable X-factor
Matt Bowen
Fullback
$400K-$600K
The human pinball. Could cover fullback or wing cheaply
Preston Campbell
Fullback/Five-eighth
$300K-$450K
Pocket rocket. Criminally underrated utility
Hazem El Masri
Wing/Centre
$350K-$500K
GOAT goal kicker. If you need a kicker, here's your man
Brett Stewart
Fullback
$600K-$900K
Prime-era was elite. Hamstrings made of tissue paper
Darius Boyd
Fullback/Wing/Centre
$400K-$600K
Three premierships. Versatility personified
Trent Barrett
Five-eighth
$500K-$700K
Origin legend. Coaching career we don't discuss
Nathan Blacklock
Wing
$300K-$400K
Electric. Score tries, drop balls. The full package
Ben Barba
Fullback
$500K-$750K
Dally M winner. Off-field issues. Prime-era was sensational
Scott Prince
Halfback
$400K-$600K
Titans legend. Handy backup half option
Greg Bird
Second Row/Lock
$450K-$650K
Origin enforcer. Glassware enthusiast
Jesse Bromwich
Prop
$500K-$750K
Storm premiership prop. Brother is apparently better
FRANCHISE POWER RANKINGS Updated post-Round 11
#1. MR. BROWNSTONE'S IMMORTALS War Chest: $1.225M | Squad Size: 16 | Threat Level:EXTREME
Position
Player
Cost
FB
James Tedesco
$1.01M
W
Roger Tuivasa-Sheck
$200K
C
Latrell Mitchell
$820K
C
Daniel Tupou
$240K
HB
Darren Lockyer
$3.35M
FE
Cooper Cronk
$3.05M
PR
Adrian Morley
$820K
HK
Damian Cook
$410K
PR
Joseph Tapine
$1.1M
SR
Nathan Hindmarsh
$700K
SR
Eliesa Katoa
$750K
LK
Isaah Yeo
$600K
INT
Brett Kimmorley
$125K
INT
Stefano Utoikamanu
$200K
INT
Xavier Willison
$200K
INT
Keaon Koloamatangi
$200K
AGENCY ASSESSMENT:
OPTIMAL TOP 17:
Code:
1. James Tedesco (FB)
2. Daniel Tupou (W)
3. Latrell Mitchell (C)
4. Roger Tuivasa-Sheck (C)
5. [NEED - Target: Blacklock/2025 winger]
6. Darren Lockyer (FE)
7. Cooper Cronk (HB)
8. Adrian Morley (PR)
9. Damian Cook (HK)
10. Joseph Tapine (PR)
11. Nathan Hindmarsh (SR)
12. Eliesa Katoa (SR)
13. Isaah Yeo (LK)
14. Brett Kimmorley (INT)
15. Stefano Utoikamanu (INT)
16. Xavier Willison (INT)
17. Keaon Koloamatangi (INT)
CAPTAIN: Darren Lockyer (Three-time premiership winner, Immortal)
GOAL KICKER: Darren Lockyer (Career 313/430 - 72.8%)
FINAL ROUND TARGETS:
Nathan Blacklock - $300K would solve the winger problem
Dylan Brown - Utility playmaker depth
Jesse Bromwich - Prop depth if affordable
VERDICT:CONTENDER. A solid roster with genuine quality in the spine. Still needs a proper winger and could use more depth. The Immortals in the halves are quality, but the $5K bid increment debacle showed Brownstone isn't infallible. Watch this space.
WATER COOLER GOSSIP:
Was cruising to an uncontested championship until he discovered the $5K bid increment rule exists. "PRECEDENT WAS SET!" echoes through the halls to this day.
Spent more energy arguing about $5,000 than most teams spent on actual strategy. The Herbie Farnworth Incident will be studied in forum law schools.
"Why do automated software updates always make things worse!!" - Brownstone, after his scheduled bid failed
The Cooper Cronk Match Day Prep Routine essay is now required reading at Hodges Agency. It includes Enya meditation and the mantra "process over outcome."
Defence called him "#BrownstonesBroncos" - the nickname has stuck in the office
Somehow wrote THREE essays for Warriors55's fines while also winning bidding wars. Multitasking king.
"The $5K increment rule finally caught up with him. Couldn't have happened to a nicer guy." - Everyone else
COACH'S BOX - AGENCY ANALYSIS:
#2. GUS'S WIZARDS (WIZARD OF TAURANGA) War Chest: $50K | Squad Size: 18 | Threat Level:HIGH
Position
Player
Cost
FB
Karmichael Hunt
$200K
W
Zac Lomax
$250K
C
Stephen Crichton
$710K
C
Clinton Toopi
$200K
W
Jamayne Isaako
$200K
FE
Ezra Mam
$200K
HB
Jonathan Thurston
$4M
PR
Spencer Leniu
$280K
HK
Cameron Smith
$5M
PR
Matt Scott
$800K
SR
Corey Parker
$410K
SR
Isaiah Papali'i
$300K
LK
Erin Clarke
$400K
INT
Jordan McLean
$200K
INT
Daniel Saifiti
$200K
INT
Leka Halasima
$550K
INT
Ben Murdoch-Masila
$200K
INT
Kurt Capewell
$200K
AGENCY ASSESSMENT:
OPTIMAL TOP 17:
Code:
1. Karmichael Hunt (FB) - pray for us
2. Zac Lomax (W)
3. Stephen Crichton (C)
4. Clinton Toopi (C)
5. Jamayne Isaako (W)
6. Ezra Mam (FE)
7. Jonathan Thurston (HB)
8. Spencer Leniu (PR)
9. Cameron Smith (HK)
10. Matt Scott (PR)
11. Corey Parker (SR)
12. Isaiah Papali'i (SR)
13. Erin Clarke (LK)
14. Kurt Capewell (INT)
15. Jordan McLean (INT)
16. Daniel Saifiti (INT)
17. Leka Halasima (INT)
CAPTAIN: Cameron Smith (Most games ever, Origin legend)
GOAL KICKER: Jonathan Thurston (Career 913/1104 - 82.7%)
FINAL ROUND TARGETS:
Reality check - $50K means you're shopping at the discount bin
Sione Katoa - $10K meme option
Anyone with a "B" surname who costs less than $50K
VERDICT:HIGH CEILING, CONCERNING FLOOR. JT and Cam Smith could carry a team of traffic cones to respectability. Whether they can overcome the holes around them is the $9M question.
WATER COOLER GOSSIP:
"We made Cam Smith the player he is today!" - actual quote during The Great Exodus
Promised Chris Hodges a Lamborghini. Redirected it to Isaac Moses. Savage.
First to complete a team. Forgot the game was about rankings, not finishing first.
"$145k would have been funnier" - Wizard, after Hodges gave him a $5K bonus
Still waiting on that $250K Cameron Smith fine to be paid. Interest is accruing.
Karmichael Hunt was displaced by Motu Tony. Let that sink in.
1. Tom Trbojevic (FB)
2. Xavier Coates (W)
3. Justin Hodges (C)
4. [NEED - Target: Darius Boyd/Preston Campbell]
5. Brian To'o (W)
6. Ryan Girdler (FE)
7. Adam Reynolds (HB)
8. Payne Haas (PR)
9. Harry Grant (HK)
10. Josh Papalii (PR)
11. Viliame Kikau (SR)
12. Ben Kennedy (SR)
13. Gordon Tallis (LK)
14. Simon Mannering (INT)
15. Craig Gower (INT)
16. Scott Sorensen (INT)
17. [NEED - utility/prop]
CAPTAIN: Gordon Tallis (Origin captain, enforcer)
GOAL KICKER: Adam Reynolds (Career 697/830 - 84%)
FINAL ROUND TARGETS:
Danny Buderus - Elite hooker depth
Darius Boyd - Versatile outside back
Sam Burgess - Would complete an absurdly strong pack
Dylan Brown - Five-eighth upgrade
VERDICT:DARK HORSE FOR THE TITLE. The forward pack alone could win games. If Turbo stays healthy (massive if), this team becomes terrifying. The halves are the one question mark.
WATER COOLER GOSSIP:
The Craig Gower Character Reference is legendary: "upstanding citizen when sober... puppetry of the penis after six beers"
"Dylan Brown deserved the 2025 Golden Boot" - Cces, If only the year 2025 counted.
Pushed Defence all the way to $1.3M for Brad Fittler. Knew exactly what he was doing.
Picked up Craig Gower for $250K after the infamous "double pipping" incident
Defence came back from lunch to find he'd lost two bidding wars. Cces does not take lunch breaks.
1. Reece Walsh (FB) - 2025 DALLY M WINNER
2. Jason Saab (W)
3. Mark Gasnier (C)
4. Joseph Manu (C)
5. Valentine Holmes (W)
6. Benji Marshall (FE)
7. Daly Cherry-Evans (HB)
8. Lindsay Collins (PR)
9. Craig Wing (HK)
10. Regan Campbell-Gillard (PR)
11. Angus Crichton (SR)
12. Sonny Bill Williams (SR)
13. Victor Radley (LK)
14. Kalyn Ponga (INT) - utility god
15. Tom Dearden (INT) - halves cover
16. Taniela Paseka (INT)
17. [NEED - prop/forward depth]
CAPTAIN: Daly Cherry-Evans (Former Maroons captain)
GOAL KICKER: Valentine Holmes (Career 192/243 - 79%)
FINAL ROUND TARGETS:
Jesse Bromwich - Desperately need a big prop
Danny Buderus - Hooker upgrade
Sam Burgess - Would transform the pack
VERDICT:WILL SCORE POINTS, MIGHT CONCEDE MORE. This team will produce highlight reels. Whether they can actually defend is another question entirely. Classic "won the off-season" vibes.
WATER COOLER GOSSIP:
Communication style: 90% reaction GIFs, 10% actual words. Respectable.
Benji + SBW reunion. The 2011 nostalgia is STRONG with this one.
Craig Fitzgibbon was drafted. As a player. In 2026. Bold.
Has Kalyn Ponga AND Tom Dearden on the bench. What is depth management?
The backline is so stacked that genuine Origin players can't crack the starting 13.
VERDICT:COMPLETE ROSTER. Already has 17 players and a terrifying forward pack. The winger spot is the only question mark, but this team will compete through sheer intimidation.
1. Greg Inglis (FB)
2. Dane Gagai (W)
3. Israel Folau (C)
4. [NEED - centre/wing]
5. [NEED - winger - CRITICAL]
6. Kieran Foran (FE)
7. Andrew Johns (HB)
8. Moses Leota (PR)
9. Api Koroisau (HK)
10. Andrew Fifita (PR)
11. Ali Lauiti'iti (SR)
12. Steve Menzies (SR)
13. Paul Gallen (LK)
14. Tino Faasuamaleaui (INT)
15. Jake Trbojevic (INT)
16. Naufahu Whyte (INT)
17. Jayden Su'a (INT)
CAPTAIN: Paul Gallen (NSW Origin captain)
GOAL KICKER: Andrew Johns (Career 781/1051 - 74.3%)
FINAL ROUND TARGETS:
ANY WINGER - This is critical. Nathan Blacklock, Matt Bowen, anyone
Darius Boyd - Could cover wing/centre
Ben Barba - Another outside back option
VERDICT:ONE SIGNING AWAY FROM CONTENTION. Joey and GI are elite. But playing with 12 men because you forgot to buy a winger is not ideal. Priority #1: WINGER.
1. Billy Slater (FB)
2. Lote Tuqiri (W)
3. Kotoni Staggs (C)
4. Herbie Farnworth (C)
5. Wendell Sailor (W)
6. Brad Fittler (FE)
7. Cameron Munster (HB)
8. James Fisher-Harris (PR)
9. Brandon Smith (HK)
10. Siosiua Taukeiaho (PR)
11. Jeremiah Nanai (SR)
12. Hudson Young (SR)
13. Patrick Carrigan (LK)
14. Jerome Hughes (INT)
15. Nicho Hynes (INT) - GOAL KICKER
16. Haumole Olakau'atu (INT)
17. Tony Williams (INT) - vibes only
CAPTAIN: Brad Fittler (Origin legend)
GOAL KICKER: Nicho Hynes (Career 220/275 - 80%) or Kotoni Staggs (82% in limited attempts)
FINAL ROUND TARGETS:
Hazem El Masri - Solves the goal kicking issue PERMANENTLY
Jesse Bromwich - Prop depth
Greg Bird - Edge forward upgrade
VERDICT:BETTER THAN IT LOOKS ON PAPER. The spine is genuine quality. If Defence is still in the game after the Staggs controversy, this team could cause problems. Buy El Masri and end the goal kicking debate forever.
1. Anthony Minichiello (FB)
2. Alex Johnston (W)
3. Ronaldo Mulitalo (C)
4. Brent Tate (C)
5. Mark Nawaqanitawase (W)
6. Todd Carney (FE)
7. Stacey Jones (HB)
8. Shane Webcke (PR)
9. Ben Hunt (HK)
10. Ruben Wiki (PR)
11. David Fifita (SR)
12. Luke Lewis (SR)
13. Jason Taumalolo (LK)
14. Isaac Luke (INT)
15. Liam Martin (INT)
16. Cameron Murray (INT)
17. Terrell May (INT)
CAPTAIN: Stacey Jones (Warriors legend)
GOAL KICKER: Ben Hunt (Career 24/32 - 75%) or need to acquire
FINAL ROUND TARGETS:
Hazem El Masri - Reliable goal kicker
Darius Boyd - Versatile outside back
Trent Barrett - Five-eighth upgrade option
VERDICT:HEART OVER HEAD. This roster was built by a true Warriors fan. The forward pack can match anyone. The backs need work. But you can't measure intangibles like having Stacey Jones in the halves.
WATER COOLER GOSSIP:
COACH'S BOX - AGENCY ANALYSIS:
#9. MUDDOGZ XIII War Chest: $2.7M | Squad Size: 12 | Threat Level:MODERATE (but improving)
VERDICT:ALL OR NOTHING. The halves are elite. The war chest is huge. But without a hooker, this team is a sports car without an engine. The final round will make or break Muddogz's entire campaign.
WATER COOLER GOSSIP:
COACH'S BOX - AGENCY ANALYSIS:
FINAL ROUND BIDDING STRATEGY
PLAYERS TO WATCH - ALPHABETICAL BY SURNAME
"B" SURNAME ELIGIBLE:
Sam Burgess - The biggest name available. Expect $1.5M+ bidding war
Danny Buderus - Muddogz NEEDS him. Others might bid to block
Matt Bowen - Sneaky good value at $400-600K
Ben Barba - Elite but controversial. Could go cheap
Greg Bird - Solid second row option
Jesse Bromwich - Quality prop depth
Nathan Blacklock - Winger solution for Ryno
Darius Boyd - Versatile outside back
Trent Barrett - Five-eighth option
ALL OTHER REMAINING HODGES AGENCY:
Preston Campbell - Utility value
Hazem El Masri - GOAT goal kicker
Brett Stewart - Fullback depth
Scott Prince - Halfback backup
2025 NRL PLAYERS OF NOTE:
Dylan Brown - 2025 GOLDEN BOOT WINNER - Elite five-eighth value (if you only account for 2025 and 2025 alone)
Lachy Galvin - Utility
Various minimum wage options - For cap management
WAR CHEST ANALYSIS
TEAM
WAR CHEST
SQUAD SIZE
CRITICAL NEEDS
SPENDING POWER
Muddogz XIII
$2.7M
12
HOOKER, depth x4
MAXIMUM
Cces
$1.71M
15
Centre, depth x2
HIGH
Apex Predators
$1.45M
16
Prop, hooker
HIGH
Mr. Brownstone
$1.225M
16
Winger
MODERATE
Warriors55
$980K
19
Centre, kicker
MODERATE
Northern Rynos
$505K
16
WINGER x2
LIMITED
Defence
$470K
17
Goal kicker clarity
LIMITED
Wrighty
$325K
17
Winger upgrade
MINIMAL
Gus's Wizards
$50K
18
Fullback ideally
NONE
<section redacted>
AGENCY FINAL RECOMMENDATIONS
DOCUMENT CLASSIFICATION: EXTREMELY LEAKED
This document was definitely not left on a USB drive at the Tauranga Golf Club. Wizard swears he didn't see anything.
Hodges Agency - Est. 1998
"Your career. Our commission."
All player valuations are subjective and definitely not influenced by
which managers bought me drinks at the Christmas party.
