Bulldogs Re-evaluate Strategy Amid NRL Rule Changes
Phil Gould, the general manager of the Canterbury Bulldogs, has openly acknowledged that the club is “re-thinking every part of our operation” following unexpected challenges posed by the NRL’s rule changes this season. The Bulldogs are currently in a difficult position, with their performance on the field not meeting expectations. As they look to improve their standing, the club is actively seeking new talent and closely monitoring key player situations.
The Bulldogs currently sit 14th on the NRL ladder heading into Round 12, having secured three wins and suffered seven losses. This is a significant drop from their third-place finish in the regular season last year. Speaking on Wednesday, Gould admitted that the increased number of six-agains and the faster pace of the game in 2026 have placed the team at a disadvantage.
“We built this team over the last couple of years on old DNA of defence and fitness and resilience,” Gould said on the ‘Six Tackles with Gus’ podcast. “And we haven’t been a big point-scoring team for the last two years either. We’ve been winning games three tries to one and four tries to two, and we’ve really backed our defence. In the game today, it’s hard to do that. It just hasn’t suited us.”
Gould emphasized that the club needs to support its players and coaches while working to regain confidence and performance on the field. This re-evaluation includes a reassessment of the team’s structure and strategy, as the Bulldogs aim to adapt to the evolving nature of the sport.
Key Players Struggling and Club Exploring Options
Several spine players have struggled to perform in the 2026 season, including Connor Tracey, Lachie Galvin, Matt Burton, and Bailey Hayward. This has prompted the Bulldogs to explore new options in the transfer market. The club has already met with fullback Jahream Bula and halfback Luke Metcalf before both signed with the Tigers and Dragons respectively.
Gould was also seen meeting with Titans hooker Sam Verrills last weekend, indicating that the Bulldogs are considering various possibilities to strengthen their squad. One of the most notable names being monitored is AJ Brimson, the Queensland State of Origin winner, who is reportedly on the Bulldogs’ radar for a potential move to fullback.
AJ Brimson’s Contract Situation
Brimson, who has helped the Maroons win two Origin series while wearing the No.1 jersey, has been forced to play centre for the Titans due to Kiwi Test fullback Keano Kini. His contract with the Titans runs until the end of 2030, and he is currently earning $850,000 per season, which is among the highest salaries for the position.
Reports suggest that Brimson is looking for a club where he can play fullback, as he believes his natural position is at the back of the field. Brent Read, speaking on NRL 360, highlighted this issue: “He doesn’t want to be a centre. He thinks he’s a fullback, and that’s going to be an issue because he’s not going to play fullback at that football club with Keano Kini.”
Michael Carayannis added: “They’ve got to let him go. For the balance of your salary cap, you’re paying $900,000 for a bloke who is not a centre. We’ve seen repeated coaches try to nail this puzzle. No one has got it right. They’ve danced around this issue for too long. The best outcome for AJ Brimson and the Titans is to part ways.”
As the Bulldogs continue to navigate these challenges, the focus remains on finding the right solutions to restore their competitive edge and return to the top of the NRL ladder.
