‘Build the team around him’: Cowboys great supports Dearden’s two essential job modifications
Brent Tate believes that recently re-signed star Tom Dearden is a future halfback and captain for the Cowboys, as well as a player around whom the team can build for years to come.
Dearden turned down a lucrative offer from the Dragons to accept a four-year contract extension that will keep him with the Cowboys until at least the conclusion of the 2029 season.
Despite the duration of the contract, Tate told SEN radio that he does not expect Dearden to become comfortable now that his future is certain.
“It’s a great little Christmas present for the Cowboys,” Tate explained on SEN 1170.
“It’s a club he grew up supporting, so it’s a dream come true for him, and it’s a wise move by the Cowboys.
“In a difficult year for the Cowboys, he was a bright spot.
“It’s a five-year agreement, but Tom isn’t the type of guy to become comfortable.
‘He’s always looking to improve, he’s a fantastic competitor, and it’s a great addition for the Cowboys to build their team around him.
Dearden began his NRL career as an 18-year-old halfback with the Broncos. He has since established himself as a five-eighth for the Cowboys, including a series-clinching victory in his Queensland Origin debut in 2022. Tate believes Dearden will move to the No.7 position when halves partner Chad Townsend retires in the next few years. He also sees Dearden as a future Cowboys captain.
“He is a guy the club will want to grow around since he has a tremendous attitude and is a fierce competitor.
“He has a lot of room to grow as a footballer, as I see him moving into the number seven jersey and becoming a controlling halfback.”
“That move is imminent, and I believe he can be both the controlling half and the running danger.
