The Roosters were a mixed bag in 2023, looking destined to miss the finals for much of the season before a late rally saw them win six straight games and make it into the second weekend of finals footy.
Overall, though, for a team that started the season as one of the premiership favourites, having signed the most expensive player of the off-season in Brandon Smith, the Roosters' campaign was below their high expectations.
Smith didn't settle in well, struggling with the move to full-time hooker and a broken hand but in his defence, he did look more comfortable in his new colours in the latter stages of the season.
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The year started on a sad note with one of the club's glamour players, Angus Crichton, battling mental demons, missing many of the early rounds.
There were other distractions during the season – Joseph Suaalii's defection to rugby, with elements in the club pushing for his immediate expulsion, and assistant coach Jason Ryles' departure after being linked with both the Dragons and rugby union, where he eventually ended.
Injuries again savaged the Roosters, with key players out for long periods and a patched-up backline eventually resulting in the team losing its knockout finals clash with the Storm.
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Discipline was again a problem, with key forwards Jared Waerea-Hargreaves and Victor Radley getting on the wrong side of referees in key games.
But there were also positives – Luke Keary began the season with a massive question mark over his career following a series of head knocks in 2022 but played every game and was a tower of strength.
Skipper James Tedesco earned some criticism, losing his standing as the game's top fullback, but played well in the big matches and finished as the Roosters' top tryscorer with 11 from 22 games.
Joey Manu was all class in his 22 games and remains one of the NRL's best outside backs.
Sam Walker had a rollercoaster season, getting dropped, then injured before being a key figure in the Roosters' late surge.
Lindsay Collins grew an extra leg after his State of Origin heroics for Queensland and led the pack with distinction.
The Roosters unearthed some bright prospects in Siua Wong, Terrell May and Egan Butcher and it's safe to say they will be challenging for a top-four berth in 2024.
Best player: Keary was creative and crafty in a make or break season, leading the Roosters in try assists and linebreak assists.
Key signing: Dominic Young was brilliant for the Knights in 2023 and should be even better on the end of the classy Roosters backline next season.
2024 gains: Dominic Young (Knights)
2024 losses: Fletcher Baker (Broncos), Jaxson Paulo (Sea Eagles), Matt Lodge (Sea Eagles)
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