The Bulldogs have signed five players classed as utilities this off-season
The Canterbury Bulldogs may be known as the team with more utilities signed than positions heading into the 2024 season, but two of its recruits now agree.
The Bulldogs’ recruitment plan, which has included utility Kurt Mann, Blake Taaffe, Jaeman Salmon, Drew Hutchison, and Connor Tracey, as well as backup dummy half Jake Turpin, has been highly panned by the media and fans.
The quantity of utilities joining a team in desperate need of forwards has raised eyebrows.
However, Jaeman Salmon, who has signed from the Penrith Panthers with the intention of playing in the second row, informed Fox Sports that the group of players has all been brought in with specific responsibilities in mind in mind, and that the versatility of the team will be a strength.
“The media has seen us as utilities, but the club has brought us all in for certain roles,” Salmon said.
“‘Manny’ [Kurt Mann] is a lock, while Connor Tracey prefers to play centre or fullback but can fill in in the halves or wherever.”
“I believe it is beneficial to have a team of versatile players. It indicates we’re all footballers who can accomplish whatever task is assigned to us. Last year, the club struggled with depth, and the truth is that you can never have too many footballers in a team.”
Salmon, who began his career in the halves but has subsequently spent time with the Penrith Panthers, where he has played a vital role in three consecutive premierships being a reality, has stated his desire to play in the back-row.
Given Viliame Kikau and Jacob Preston’s block, it’s an unlikely outcome his path, with Salmon also open to his versatility winning him a spot in the 17.
“Back row is obviously the goal for me. I know we’ve got some great back-rowers in Kiks and Presto, so I’ll be doing everything I can to get a spot in the 17,” Salmon said.
“I like to think of myself as versatile, so if anything happened, I can fill in in the halves or the centres.”
Meanwhile, fullback and half Blake Taaffe confirmed he has his mind set on wearing the number one jumper at the club.
It’s another battle that will likely go against the recruit, with Canterbury paying big money to sign Stephen Crichton from the Panthers.
“Obviously that’s the position where I’m most known to play,” Taaffe said.
“Obviously that’s the position where I’m most known to play,” Taaffe was quoted as saying.
“I just want to come here and train my heart out and earn the boys’ respect.” Whatever position I am assigned, I will give it everything I have.
“Competition is excellent because it keeps you motivated. Lack of competition is detrimental since it prevents you from becoming comfortable in certain areas.
“I feel like I’m getting better each day here and I’m getting a lot of good feedback off the coaches and players.”
The Bulldogs begin their 2024 season against the Parramatta Eels on March 9.
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