But while in 2014 the acquisition of Fetuli Talanoa and Jordan Rankin seemed something of a risk at the time, that's certainly not the case with the one-year deal Hull have handed to Stuart Howarth.
It's not a signing to excite fans and put bums on seats, but it's not meant to be.
What it is, is an absolute no-brainer and a deal I am sure Lee Radford would do 10 times out of 10.
When you have an opportunity to sign a Super League player with 50 games under his belt from three clubs, someone who you know can play at that level, and they are free to sign for you for an amount that makes the smallest of ripples on your salary cap, you take it.
Howarth arrives not as a starting hooker, but to provide experience and necessary cover to a position that boasts just Danny Houghton and James Cunningham, who is still very inexperienced as a hooker in Super League.
If Radford goes with two hookers in his side every week, as he did so often last season, logic dictates you need more than two options for your players to be sharp and improve their game.
As the number two hooker behind Houghton, Cunningham has been pushing Hull's vice captain, but likewise he needs pressure on himself and Howarth brings that.
You can never have too much experience in your squad and bringing an extra body in is also valuable.
The fact Hull look like they have got Howarth on a deal that Radford has called "a steal" means there is no real gamble on Hull's part.
I expect we'll see Howarth get a run out on Sunday in a very good double-header in Doncaster.
It's a shame for York they've had to switch the game to the Keepmoat, but for the fans it's perfect as you get to see the whole squad in action.
Having started last season with a number of poor displays in the friendlies, Hull took that form and lack of confidence into the start of Super League and it does play a part.
What's important on Sunday is Hull make a bright start, get some combinations working and instill more confidence and belief in the players. Hopefully, they will get the bonus of two wins too.
There's no points to play for in January, but you can set a tone for the season with your performances.
If they do that, and come away from the game relatively unscathed, I'm sure Radford will be delighted.
