The Mole: 'Smarter' Latrell Mitchell must emerge to save South Sydney after Adam Reynolds' exit
The Rabbitohs came agonisingly close to an unexpected premiership last year but if they're to go one better in 2022 they'll have to do it without their inspirational former skipper Adam Reynolds.
Reynolds has been the constant that has kept the Rabbitohs fighting for the trophy for the seven seasons since they last lifted it in 2014.
Can they match it with the heavyweights without him? Read on for The Mole's 2022 Rabbitohs season preview.
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Latrell Mitchell runs through a drill at Rabbitohs training. Getty
2021 finishing position: Grand finalists
Gains: Isaiah Tass (Broncos), Michael Chee Kam (Wests Tigers), Siliva Havili (Raiders)
Losses: Adam Reynolds (Broncos), Braidon Burns (Bulldogs), Jaydn Su'A (Dragons), Benji Marshall (retirement), Dane Gagai (Knights), Patrick Mago (Wigan), Joshua Cook (Bulldogs), Brock Gardner (released), Troy Dargan (released), Steven Marsters (released), Tautau Moga (Dragons)
Best 17: 1. Latrell Mitchell, 2. Alex Johnston, 3. Campbell Graham, 4. Isaiah Tass, 5. Jaxson Paulo, 6. Cody Walker, 7. Blake Taaffe, 8. Tom Burgess, 9. Damien Cook, 10. Tevita Tatola, 11. Jacob Host, 12. Keaon Koloamatangi, 13. Cameron Murray, 14. Jai Arrow, 15. Mark Nicholls, 16. Liam Knight, 17. Lachlan Ilias
Greatest strength: A strong all-around roster, a lethal left attacking edge and a big pack with plenty of go-forward combine to make the Bunnies one of the genuine contenders for 2022.
Biggest question mark: With Adam Reynolds gone, Cody Walker will have even more heat put on him by rival defences. He will carry much of the hopes of Souths' attack.
Man under pressure: Latrell Mitchell finished 2021 in a bad place after THAT tackle on Joey Manu. He has had plenty of time to reflect on his actions and needs to come back a smarter, more controlled player this campaign.
Biggest loss: Adam Reynolds was the heart and soul of South Sydney and I believe it was a massive mistake letting him walk. His game management was right up there with the best players in the league and he'll be replaced by a rookie who could struggle over a long season.
Predicted 2022 finishing position: 4th
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