Wayne Bennett, the legendary NRL coach, has made it clear that he won’t be altering Latrell Mitchell’s playing style despite the tumultuous 2024 season for the Rabbitohs. With South Sydney finishing a disappointing 16th on the ladder, many have speculated about what changes might be necessary for the Bunnies to rebound. But Bennett, who previously led Souths to a grand final in 2021, is firm in his stance that Mitchell doesn’t need to be reined in on the field.
“I’m not an idiot. I won’t be changing Latrell. I will just let him play, that’s what he does best,” Bennett told *The Daily Telegraph*, showcasing the trust he has in his star fullback.
Mitchell, whose 2024 campaign was marred by a series of off-field controversies and a season-ending injury, is now at a pivotal moment in his career. The Rabbitohs’ $1.2 million-a-year marquee player was suspended for three games early in the season and later handed fines and a one-game ban for an off-field incident involving a white powder substance. Though the Rabbitohs tried to rush him back to serve his ban in the final round, they were unsuccessful, leaving Mitchell unavailable for round one of 2025.
Despite these setbacks, Bennett’s belief in Mitchell’s abilities has not wavered. Their strong relationship dates back to Bennett’s earlier tenure at the Rabbitohs, during which Mitchell played some of the best football of his career. However, 2025 will be a make-or-break year for the star fullback, as both the club and its fans are eager for a return to form and consistency.
The Rabbitohs’ future is not solely tied to Mitchell. Bennett’s approach will also have to account for young talent Jye Gray, who impressed while filling in at fullback during Mitchell’s absence. While Bennett has hinted that he sees Mitchell as his No.1, Gray’s development raises questions about how the two will fit into the squad.
Another significant question mark for South Sydney is who will partner Cody Walker in the halves next year. With the signing of halfback Lewis Dodd from the English Super League, the Rabbitohs have a potential option, but how Dodd adapts to the NRL remains to be seen. Meanwhile, Lachlan Ilias started 2024 as the club’s primary halfback but struggled with both form and injury throughout the season.
Adding more intrigue to the Rabbitohs’ 2025 lineup is the surprise signing of former Manly player Josh Schuster. In a bold move, Souths have picked up Schuster on a one-year deal worth $140,000—an enormous pay cut from the $800,000 he was earning at Manly. The 23-year-old’s career at the Sea Eagles was marked by inconsistency and off-field distractions, but Bennett is willing to give him a fresh start.
“I gave him a chance because I knew he has a lot of football ability, simple as that,” Bennett said. “He wanted to come to Souths, and the money’s not ridiculous. He just wants a chance, and I’ll give it to him.”
Bennett is reportedly impressed with Schuster’s commitment and drive to prove himself after parting ways with Manly. The versatile player, who shifted between the halves and the back row at Manly, is expected to return to the forward pack under Bennett’s guidance.
This signing could prove to be one of the shrewdest deals in recent NRL history if Bennett can unlock Schuster’s potential. League analysts, including Greg Alexander, have backed the move, with many believing that Bennett is the ideal coach to harness the 23-year-old’s raw talent.
League reporter Michael Carayannis echoed this sentiment, saying, “Manly cut him adrift, and he has taken that time to train hard and refocus. By all reports, he has done that and looked really impressive. And impressed Wayne in their meetings together.”
Schuster now faces a crucial test in 2025, where he will look to reinvigorate his career and make a lasting impact with the Rabbitohs. With Bennett at the helm, both Schuster and Mitchell have a unique opportunity to rediscover their best form and lead South Sydney back into premiership contention.
For the Rabbitohs, the 2025 season will be defined by the performance of its star players, both old and new. If Bennett’s proven coaching expertise can once again work its magic, South Sydney may very well be poised for a resurgence after a forgettable 2024.
