NRL 2024: How Western Bears could line-up in 2027, potential player and coach signings

NRL clubs are on notice as the Western Bears prepare to raid them of their talent ahead of their NRL entry in 2027. Check out the best 1-17 of players who are available for the 18th NRL franchise.

Bears art main

Payne Haas as the marquee man, skipper Jamal Fogarty to call the shots, and a former Eel holding clipboard.

The Western Bears are here, and clubs are on notice as their top players are set to be raided to kickstart the 18th NRL franchise and it’s time to look at how the new team could look.

With the Bears confirmed to join the competition in 2027, there’s no escaping the impending raid on the current 17 teams.

The Dolphins laid out a blueprint last season on what works and what doesn’t when becoming the newest NRL club, which will be useful for the Western Australia-based side.

Guided by recruitment guru Peter O’Sullivan, the Dolphins successfully lured big names and up-and-coming stars, finding relative success in their first two years in the competition.

It seems the Bears have their work cut out for them … right?

The first thing the Bears need to do is secure their coach, and the sooner they sign Brad Arthur, the better their first year will be.

Could Brad Arthur be the man to lead the Bears in this new venture? Picture: NRL Imagery

The current Leeds and former Parramatta coach has unmatched recruitment drawing power, making him a prime candidate for the role.

Although his time at Parramatta ended on a sour note, his signing could attract a few young Eels stars to follow him.

Next, the team needs a marquee signing, and lucky for them, Haas is off contract at the end of 2026.

What a signing Payne Haas would be for the new NRL club. Picture: Albert Perez/Getty Images

While you don’t typically build a team around a front rower, Haas is the exception.

His work ethic and star power would be pivotal for this side. He knows how to win big games and lead by example which is key for early success.

Averaging the third-most run metres and ranking in the top-five for tackles at the Broncos, Haas has the potential to become the highest-paid forward with a move to Perth.

Another factor that could benefit the Bears if Arthur is announced as coach is an influx of Super League players returning to Australia.

Arthur is coaching former premiership winner Paul Momirovski, who will be off contract in the UK at the end of the 2026 season.

Alongside him, exiled players Matt Dufty and Brodie Croft could find their way back into the NRL if they continue their solid form in the English competition.

This masthead has reviewed all the players available for the Bears’ first year in the competition and put together their best 17.

Originally published as NRL 2024: How Western Bears could line-up in 2027, potential player and coach signings