Wayne Bennett and the South Sydney Rabbitohs appear readying a reshuffle for 2026, with Latrell Mitchell likely to be shifted away from his current fullback role. Meanwhile, the club has already secured a major forward signing and is eyeing further reinforcements to fortify their pack.
Mitchell’s Role: Fullback Under Review
In 2025, there has been increasing discussion around whether Latrell Mitchell should remain at fullback or move into a different position — such as centre or five-eighth.
- The emergence of promising youngster Jye Gray at fullback, coupled with injury issues and match load concerns for Mitchell, has intensified debate. Souths coach Jason Demetriou and commentators have publicly weighed in.
- Some voices (including Alex McKinnon, others in media) have suggested a switch to five-eighth might allow Mitchell to play with greater influence over the game, reducing the physical burden of fullback duties.
- Defensively and offensively, Mitchell has experience at centre (with both NSW and earlier in his career), giving credence to the argument that he could slot back there if needed.
Coach Demetriou has so far been measured in public statements, noting there have been conversations about different roles, but also emphasizing the importance of Mitchell being well-prepared and fit for whatever position he plays.
Pack Reinforcements: Brandon Smith Arrives
As part of the Rabbitohs’ plan to build more strength up front:
- Brandon Smith, the hooker formerly with Melbourne Storm and Sydney Roosters, has been signed for 2026-27. Souths believe he brings premiership experience, versatility in the forward roles, and leadership to bolster their pack.
- Although injured with an ACL at the time of signing, his arrival is viewed as a big boost for South Sydney’s forward rotation from 2026 onward.
What the Changes Mean Together
The combination of repositioning a star back and reinforcing the forward pack suggests South Sydney are aiming for a structural reset — using 2026 as a season of reconfiguration to address weaknesses exposed in 2025.
- Moving Mitchell could give both more rest/load management and allow other players (like Gray, or Jack Wighton potentially) to step into roles with more consistency.
- Reinforcing the pack with someone of Smith’s pedigree suggests the club recognizes they need more go-forward, toughness, and depth in forward positions.
- There are reports also that Souths are keeping eyes open on other targets, especially in the engine room (props, middle forwards) to replace or support players who have underperformed, left, or are aging. (FOX SPORTS)
Outlook & Challenges
While these moves are promising, there are still hurdles:
- Mitchell’s fitness and ability to manage a potential positional change will be key. The club will want to ensure any switch doesn’t reduce his impact or expose defensive vulnerabilities.
- Salary cap constraints and roster spots may limit how many premium players Souths can bring in, especially while retaining existing players.
- The transition period may see some uneven performances as roles settle, combinations develop, and players adjust.
