Jason Taumalolo believes Valentine Holmes is taking a massive risk in trying to crack the NFL

He once considered taking on the NFL himself but North Queensland’s Jason Taumalolo believes Valentine Holmes’ decision to try and make it in America is a “huge risk”.

North Queensland Cowboys training from 1300 Smiles Stadium. Jason Taumalolo. Picture: Zak Simmonds

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Cowboys star Jason Taumalolo has labelled Valentine Holmes’ NFL dalliance a “huge risk” and insists he doesn’t regret signing a 10-year deal with North Queensland.

Holmes, an incumbent Maroons and Kangaroos winger, is in America trying to secure a crack with an NFL franchise after walking out on his Cronulla contract.

It was just over two years ago that Taumalolo and Holmes famously flew to America after a Four Nations tournament in England to audition for NFL scouts as the duo pondered having a go at gridiron.

Taumalolo went cold on the idea and inked the longest contract in NRL history to remain with the Cowboys until 2027.

Holmes and Taumalolo underwent NFL trials several years ago. Picture by Nathan Edwards.

But the 23-year-old Holmes has decided to make the switch and Taumalolo is backing him to make a fist of it after they trialled together.

“It’s a huge risk but a good one for Val,” he said.

“He’s got age and youth on his side. I definitely think if anyone is capable of giving that a hot crack it’s Val.

“He’s got the talent, is young and willing to learn.

“He’s been one of the best players in the NRL and for him to make that move will be huge, but I’m definitely backing him to make it.”

Taumalolo, 25, returned from the NFL experiment in late 2016 and decided rugby league was where he wanted to be.

Taumalolo is contracted to North Queensland for another eight years. Picture by Zak Simmonds.

But the Tongan international said he thought Holmes didn’t feel the same way.

“I definitely think it was playing on his mind,” he said.

“He’s got the skill set , it’s all about learning.”

Taumalolo will be 34 when his 10-year contract with the Cowboys expires.

It was a huge show in faith from both the Cowboys and Taumalolo to commit to each other for so long, especially with the ferocity in which he plays.

The deal means Taumalolo is locked into the NRL for the remainder of his career, but that is something he is comfortable with.

“I’m definitely happy playing here for the next 10 years,” he said.

“(I haven’t regretted the contract) at all.

“Val is on his own ride. He is at a time where he can make that move.

“I love this club and have been here from the start. Fingers crossed I finish still playing for the Cowboys.”

The Cowboys yesterday trained in torrential rain in Townsville as coach Paul Green ramps up their preparations ahead of the 2019 NRL season.

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