Mega-deal a pressure builder

DARREN Lockyer has warned Jason Taumalolo’s 10year deal could backfire amid fears the Cowboys back-rower will not be as dominant when Johnathan Thurston retires.

Taumalolo yesterday closed the door on a move to America to chase an NFL career, instead opting to become a Cowboy for life by signing the NRL’s first 10-year contract.

Broncos greats Lockyer and Justin Hodges last night conceded Taumalolo will have nowhere to hide and must perform every week to justify his mega deal.

Lockyer said he could not criticise Taumalolo for seeking long-term security, but warned the Dally M winner would face tough scrutiny during any form slump.

“History shows these longterm deals can backfire,” said Lockyer, the former Queensland and Test captain.

“Ten years is a long time in this game. It’s great stability for Jason, but the fans and the club will expect him to perform every week and there will be challenges. It will be interesting to see two years into this deal how it’s going for him.

“When DCE (Manly halfback Daly Cherry-Evans) did his eight-year deal, we thought ‘good on him’, but as we’ve seen with Daly, the moment his side has a few losses, the spotlight is on him.

“He’ll be the $10 million man and that perception will apply the pressure on him.”

Hodges questioned whether Taumalolo would have the same impact when Thurston, the Cowboys’ champion playmaker, retired in two years.