The grand finalists will be strong again next year, and don't forget the likes of Canberra, Warriors and the Storm who have retained, and in some instances built on, the bulk of successful squads. Penrith have proven the importance of that this year.
Newcastle will again depend on the availability of Johns, but still have a side that can be a threat. Brisbane are very up in the air but will be bolstered if Gorden Tallis has a set of fresh legs. The Dragons and the Bulldogs are teams that are in the "remain to be seen" category.
The top 8 battle will be even more heated than it was this year. The Cowboys, Eels, Sharks, Sea Eagles and Tigers will all have a big 5 way battle unless one of those teams finds some much needed consistency. All of those sides have varying levels of potential at this stage so it's hard to pick one out. Obviously as a Cowboys fan I can say that their new signings will add to an side that was already of top 8 quality. After the year they've had they'll start to play better and get a few results in those close games.
Also I pick the Cowboys to get their first channel 9 game for 9 years.
