NRL Legends Discuss Future Prospects for Lachlan Galvin Following Bulldogs Transfer: ‘He’s More Than Just a Halfback’

Andrew Johns has expressed uncertainty about Lachlan Galvin’s long-term role with Canterbury, suggesting a potential move to the forward pack.

Following much speculation, the 19-year-old recently signed with the Bulldogs, marking a significant acquisition for the top contenders.

Galvin is anticipated to be included in the starting lineup in the coming weeks, with halfback Toby Sexton likely to make way.

However, according to one of the game’s greatest halfbacks, Galvin may not remain in that playmaking position, with suggestions that he could evolve into a ball-playing lock forward.

“I believe that in six years he’ll need to bulk up, adding another 10 kilos to compete in the middle,” Johns commented on Nine’s The Sunday Footy Show.

“I don’t see a long-term future for him as a halfback.

“He strikes me as a running five-eighth, similar to Matt Burton. There’s a lot of excitement around a player called Mitch Woods, but he’s likely about 18 months away from breaking into the NRL.”

“If you asked them who their halves would be in three years’ time, they’d likely be looking at Mitch Woods and Galvin.”

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The former Australian Schoolboys representative transitioned through various positions in youth football, including halves, fullback, and the back row.

Cameron Smith echoed Johns’ sentiments, suggesting Galvin’s future lies in the middle of the field as he matures physically.

“He’s still developing physically, but he has a solid frame,” the Storm legend stated.

“If he can add 10 kilos and maintain his performance levels, I believe he could become an exceptional lock forward.”

Galvin left the Wests Tigers in a controversial manner, but the club had high expectations for him, showcasing flashes of his immense potential during his tenure.

Maroons coach Billy Slater noted that while Galvin may not fit the traditional halfback mould, his experience under Benji Marshall revealed promising attributes.

“He has a halfback’s mentality; he is always heavily involved,” Slater highlighted.

“When he played for the Tigers, he wore jersey number six but operated like a halfback, consistently seeking the ball, regardless of where it was on the field. His desire to have the ball is a key trait for a halfback.”

“I can envision a scenario where they utilise his unique style effectively.”

Canterbury has already begun to shift their approach over the last 18 months, integrating smaller forwards like Kurt Mann and Bailey Hayward into their middle attack.

Roosters icon Brad Fittler believes Galvin’s signing will push the Bulldogs further from convention and reinforce their status as a serious premiership contender.

“They have the potential to alter the game’s dynamics,” he said.

“If you were to compare him and Burton, you’d notice that one is a left-footer, while the other is a right-footer. In today’s game, locks often take on roles similar to halves; moving someone into the middle as a link player could significantly alter the dynamic. You might even consider positioning the halfback behind the line to pop in and out of play.”

“This could potentially transform the way the game is approached. Although I don’t view Galvin as a traditional halfback, I do see opportunities for them to revolutionise gameplay.”