Arguably the best young prop in the game today. Simply has it all - imposing size, deft skill, fearlessness and the mongrel to stick it to opposing packs. Made an impact with NSW last season and the Kangaroos in 2001. Huge future.That was the spruik Jason Ryles was given in the 2003 NRL media guide. Now the Roosters are hoping he can generate the same gushing prose in 2010 and 2011 to round out a career that has had its critics.
Revealing he had unsuccessfully twisted the arm of Ryles to sign with him while coaching Parramatta and Newcastle, Brian Smith yesterday proudly unveiled the former St George Illawarra Dragons prop as the first big-name recruit of his tri-colour regime.
Despite being just one season into a three-year deal with France-based Super League club Catalans Dragons, it was Ryles who rang Smith looking for a job back in the NRL, where he believes he has unfinished business and a point to prove.
The 30-year-old, who hails from the Illawarra, said it was largely a homesick girlfriend who had driven him to pick up the phone.
''When Smithy got this job [as Roosters coach] I made a few inquiries.'' Ryles initially didn't think he was much of a chance, but ''as it turned out [Smith] was pretty keen.'' He also fielded interest from the Knights and Eels so ''it wasn't Roosters or nothing''.
Ryles has a two-year deal that he says will probably see him finish his career at Bondi Junction. Having taken the 2009 wooden spoon after a season that also boasted incredible off-field controversy, the signing of Ryles is a refreshing piece of good news for the Roosters.
He will add much-needed experience to the forward pack given the club has lost its elder statesman, Craig Fitzgibbon, as well as Mark O'Meley, Iosia Soliola and Shane Shackleton.
Willie Mason is also expected to depart, while Setaimata Sa has reportedly joined Les Catalans in an exchange deal involving Ryles.
''It was an easy one, this one,'' said Smith of the signing.
''I've been keen to catch Rylesy at a couple of other places I've been in the past and he's not been available, but this time we were both in the right place at the right time so we can have a crack at it together. There's a job here to be done - for an experienced prop to add a bit more balance to a pretty useful squad that we've got. Without stirring up any hornets nest, I think Rylesy has got a bit to prove. We've got an opening and he's got a point to prove. It sounds like a good mix.''
Jared Waerea-Hargreaves, signed from Manly, ''is an awesome young talent'' who would benefit from the guidance of Ryles.
The Roosters now boasted a forward pack that could ''create some damage'', Smith said.
Ryles made his debut with the Dragons in 2000 and left for France after nine seasons in the red V. In his final season he won his third Dragons Medal as the club's player of the year.
Ryles said he was over a neck injury that limited his appearances for Les Catalans early in the season. ''I'm feeling fine and fairly refreshed.'' Ryles helped get Les Catalans to the semi-final of the Super League.
Smith told the Herald his Super League spies ''were all saying that after [Ryles] shook that neck injury he had a pretty good year''.
Had he been wary about joining the Roosters after their horror season?
''The proof's in the pudding. Whatever club Smithy goes to, he leaves it in pretty good shape,'' Ryles said.
He agreed with Smith that he had a point to prove: ''I won't deny that I've copped my fair share of criticism over the years.''
Ryles starts training in a fortnight and is already looking ahead to Anzac Day when the Roosters meet the Dragons at Sydney Football Stadium.
smh.com.au
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