The St George Illawarra Dragons are poised to make a bold move by signing Josh Addo-Carr, as his future with the Canterbury Bulldogs appears all but over. Following his roadside cocaine arrest and off-field issues, Addo-Carr is likely to see his contract terminated by the Bulldogs, who may opt to cut ties with the star winger a year early. For the Dragons, signing “The Foxx” presents a significant risk, but one they are seemingly willing to take.

At 29 years old, Addo-Carr still has plenty of time to reignite his career, with hopes of reclaiming his spot in the NSW and Australian jerseys. His potential move to the Dragons could be the key to restoring his status as one of the game’s best wingers. However, this opportunity could be his last chance. Continued injuries or further off-field controversies could leave him with limited options, including a move to the Super League or overseas rugby to prolong his career.

The Dragons, who have lost Zac Lomax to Parramatta, are in need of a game-changing player in their backline. The combination of Addo-Carr on the left wing and Valentine Holmes, who has been recruited to replace Lomax as the team’s goal kicker and aerial threat, could significantly enhance the Dragons’ attack. Alongside Tyrell Sloan at fullback and Moses Suli on the right edge, a Holmes-Addo-Carr partnership has the potential to generate plenty of points for the Dragons.

While Addo-Carr’s form at Canterbury may not have matched his blistering strike rate at Melbourne Storm, his record is still impressive, with 11 tries in 14 appearances last season, despite a hamstring injury. However, there are concerns about whether he has lost some of the explosive speed that made him a standout player. He’s also appeared to bulk up to handle the demanding backfield carries that are expected of modern wingers.

The Dragons, under coach Shane Flanagan’s strict regime, are confident they can whip Addo-Carr into peak condition. But the real question lies in his off-field behavior. Addo-Carr’s run-ins with the law, including the Koori Knockout brawl and his recent cocaine test, have left a tarnished mark on his reputation. His three-game suspension from the NRL, on top of a $15,000 fine, means he won’t be available until at least Round 3 next season.

Despite these setbacks, Addo-Carr remains too talented to be written off. If he can focus and stay fit, he has the potential to be a game-changer for St George Illawarra. As the Bulldogs look to move on with younger wingers like Jacob Kiraz and Blake Wilson, the Dragons have a golden opportunity to take a calculated risk on a player who still has plenty to offer. The key for Addo-Carr now is to prove that his best days are not behind him and that he still belongs among the NRL’s elite.