The last time South Sydney won an NRL premiership, Sam Burgess was leading them from the front.
Nearly a decade on from that drought-breaking title win in 2014, the Rabbitohs are hoping the return of the Englishman can be the difference in their pursuit of grand final glory.
Burgess is back on Jason Demetriou's coaching staff after being stood down in 2020 over off-field behaviour.
The 34-year-old spent last year coaching the Orara Valley Axemen in NSW Rugby League's Group 2, and was courted by Wayne Bennett to become his No.2 at the Dolphins.
Instead the dual-code international opted to return to work with Demetriou at Souths, where many of his former teammates are soaking up his knowledge in their hunt for a title.
"He's added some energy and he's a fun, hard-working guy," five-eighth Cody Walker told AAP.
"It's the same as when he played the game, he's helpful to the young guys and gives them tips.
"He was one of the best forwards, and he's got that factor in that he knows how to motivate men.
"He had that aura of being able to bring a group together and that knack of firing you up.
"So many of us played with him and understand what he's about - he's one of the smartest minds, which is rare for a forward."
Along with John Morris, Burgess is helping run the Rabbitohs' defensive game plan and leading wrestling sessions.
"He's been doing a lot of our mind-set stuff for when we're defending our try line," said centre Campbell Graham.
"He's a very passionate leader and a very passionate coach."
The Englishman's younger brother Tom hopes the wisdom shared with the current crop of Rabbitohs helps them rid the tag of being the NRL's "nearly men".
The Bunnies have made four preliminary finals and one grand final in the past five years, but have failed to win a premiership.
"I think him supporting JD will be a big help in us moving to the next level," Tom Burgess said.
"He's got that mentality that he brings to the groups.
"I think he's a big help for the leaders because he always was one, even when he was a young player.
"(This year) it's about finding that next bit of energy you need in big games and building that connection when things get tough."
