New Cowboys coach Todd Payten is wary of the burnout factor with Jason Taumalolo and plans to change the game's most destructive forward's role in 2021.
There isn't a more damaging forward in the NRL than Taumalolo in his prime and the big man has a motor capable of going for the full 80 minutes.
MORE: Wrecking ball Taumalolo still has untapped weapon
But the 27-year-old colossus is entering his 10th season in the NRL and has seven seasons left on his huge Cowboys deal.
Payten knows Taumalolo can win games in the short term - but he is taking a more long-term view to protect his greatest asset.
"We all know what a great player Jason is but we also have to be mindful of his body and work rate," Payten told Wide World Of Sports.
"We don't want to burn him out - he still has a lot of seasons in the NRL ahead of him.
"He has been averaging over 60 minutes a game the last few seasons and if possible, we will cut his game time a little.
"That will give him more gas in attack and also ensure that he is able to maintain his intensity in defence."
With the game set to be played faster than ever before under the rule changes for 2021, big men could struggle - especially in the tropical heat of Townsville early in the season.
But Payten isn't worried about his strike weapon's ability to handle the changes.
"He is in great shape and we will manage his game time - he is set for a big year," Payten said.
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