Aaron Woods has lit the fuse for a fiery start to the NRL season at the code's 2017 launch at a packed Martin Place on Thursday.
Woods suggested the Tigers were revelling in being free of the long-term Robbie Farah drama ahead of their clash with South Sydney next Friday night.
But the Tigers captain says the time is now for the team's halves and fullback to step up as the club's new leaders in the absence of their long-time No.9.
"We've obviously had a few dramas in the last 18 months," Woods said.
"So it's good to get away from that and good to have a pre-season drama free."
Farah's ongoing dispute with coach Jason Taylor came to an end last season when he was released with a year to run on his contract to join the Rabbitohs.
But even with the retirement of hooking utility Dene Halatau over the off-season, Woods indicated he wasn't concerned about the impact the 247-game veteran's absence might have - provided his fellow off-contract teammates stood up.
"JT has got the side that he wants now," Woods said.
"There are some young blokes like Mitchell Moses, Luke Brooks and James Tedesco that have grown of age a little bit.
"They're going to have to show a bit more leadership qualities without Robbie Farah being there this year. So we're going to have to step up and deliver."
Meanwhile, South Sydney captain Greg Inglis said Farah's arrival at the Rabbitohs had been nothing but positive after his difficult end at the Tigers.
"He's a different voice around the group," Inglis said.
"Him and (Damien) Cooky have been training really well together, they've been terrific. Bouncing off each other and getting ideas, which makes our forward pack a lot better."
The comments from Woods headlined the NRL's public event, which included the NRL's new "Let's make history, let's make it together" slogan.
Exiled Cronulla fullback Ben Barba appeared in a number of highlights packages prior to the main event, while round one's opposing captains each walked out to meet each other on stage.
"When I look at the group of leaders ... I am heartened to know the game will have a very strong season," NRL chief executive Todd Greenberg said.
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