NRL 2016

Appearing via video link, the Queensland and Australian representative successfully argued that his actions were careful, rather than careless as put forward by the prosecution on Wednesday night.

Using a simultaneous four angle shot, Scott admitted he had put Edwards into an awkward position, but had shown due diligence to ensure no pressure was applied to the head and neck area.

The verdict means Scott will be free to play the Roosters on Thursday night.

Storm Football Director Frank Ponissi said, "While we are hugely disappointed to hear the extent of Billy's injury, we are very pleased to hear the medical team expect him to make a full and successful recovery."

Slater will have some time away from the Club before commencing his rehabilitation program to return to the field as soon as possible.

Broncos: Lachlan Maranta (wrist, Round 7), Carlin Anderson (stomach, indefinite), Corey Oates (shoulder, Round 6)

Raiders: Adam Clydsdale (shoulder, Round 4), Blake Austin (knee, Round 5-7), Aidan Sezer (eye socket, Round 5-7), Joey Leilua (suspension, Round 5/6)

Bulldogs: Brett Morris (knee, late season), Michael Lichaa (knee, indefinite)

Sharks: Paul Gallen (knee, Round 5-7)

Titans: Kane Elgey (ACL, season), Nathaniel Peteru (knee, Round 6), Will Zillman (calf, indefinite)

On the back of their 30-12 win over Newcastle last Sunday Henry has taken the luxury of naming both Zillman and Luke Douglas (suspension) on an extended bench while retaining the same 13 that took the field against the Knights.

Interchange forward Eddy Pettybourne is in doubt with a severe cork to his thigh which would open the door for Douglas, the club's reigning player of the year, to come straight back into the 17.

The Sea Eagles have a new playmaking and hooking combination, an unrecognisable forward pack from last year and a completely new coaching staff, but Canterbury players say there are still a few givens whenever you take on the Sea Eagles on their home patch.

"You know they're going to turn up, they obviously have a new coach and a few new players but the mentality of Manly's never changed," Dogs prop Aiden Tolman said.

Norman landed awkwardly on his head right before half time, ending his night, after star recruit and halfback Kieran Foran was a pre-game withdrawal.

The Broncos took a little while to get going but never looked like conceding the game even before Norman was injured, which happened with Brisbane up 14-4.

For the visitors, winger Corey Oates was heavily involved, scoring one try and setting up another, while both halves Ben Hunt and Anthony Milford worked their way into the match well.

For the home side an aggressive recruitment drive that yielded Kieran Foran, Michael Jennings, Beau Scott and Michael Gordon - and an early piece of silverware that came back with them in excess baggage from the Downer NRL Auckland Nines - has given one of the heartiest home crowds great cause for optimism.

For those cheering on last year's runners-up, a settled roster that has seen the addition of James Roberts to replace the retired Justin Hodges in the centres means the Broncos will carry the tag as premiership favourites into the season opener.

Here are the six players I believe will have a major impact on the Telstra Premiership in 2016.

Kodi Nikorima (Brisbane Broncos)