Taumalolo little fish in big NFL pond: NQ

Nov 24, 2016 - 6:00 PM North Queensland coach Paul Green has baulked at claims Jason Taumalolo's NFL trial is a cynical attempt to boost his NRL market value.

But he has warned the Cowboys' wrecking ball he will be a "little fish in a big pond" during this weekend's workout in Los Angeles.

At least 16 NFL scouts will watch Taumalolo and Cronulla's Valentine Holmes attend the weekend drills session at the University of Southern California.

Sceptical Sharks captain Paul Gallen claimed this week it may be a ploy for the pair to add a few more dollars to their next NRL contract.

Both are off contract in 2017 and share the same manager.

Asked about the theory, Green said: "I am not sure - you will have to ask his management group."

However, the Cowboys coach added: "But I think there is a bit of genuine interest (from the NFL).

"After what Jarryd Hayne did I think it piqued interest in our game and Jason is an unbelievable athlete so he fits the mould.

"But he is a little fish in a big pond over there.

"It will be interesting to see how he goes."

Asked if he wasn't too concerned Taumalolo would be lost to the NFL, Green said: "I don't want to lose him.

"He will play for us next year so we don't lose anything to that extent.

"But we would like to extend Jason (contract) for longer - hopefully that is the case for the club."

Source: AAP