Every new coach needs time to get a gauge on the players and environment he's walked into before trimming and recruiting to get the roster they want. Like it or not, that can take two seasons or more.
Unfortunately for Kearney's three predecessors -Brian McClennan, Matt Elliott and Andrew McFadden - only the latter had the luxury of nearly three seasons in charge. How is a club, let alone the players, expected to progress or find confidence and stability with five different coaching philosophies ringing in their ears?
There's been criticism of the Kearney's tactics this season. Not enough offloads. Too conservative. Getting away from the Warriors 'traditional' style.
The only thing traditional about the Warriors play in recent years has been the mind-boggling errors. But heading into last week's game against North Queensland, they were among the competition's top ranked sides for set completions. And when they have managed to win the forward battle and generate ruck speed, Issac Luke and his fellow playmakers have been able to run and offloads have been a feature of the side's play.
What has been even harder to see are the little improvements in the side over the last 21 rounds. Defensively they have been more committed and they have shown a tenacity to stay in games longer.
Kearney has also come under fire for showing an unwillingness to drop players when many were calling for heads to roll. Issues around a lack of depth and an awareness of players' already fragile confidence has seen him stay loyal, while hoping players produce the right response.
Explaining such issues or justifying his decisions are not a priority for Kearney, whose comments post-match or midweek often require some de-coding.
His unwavering belief and constant reference to 'the process' can prove testing for reporters and the public seeking greater insight into where he believes the team is at and where he sees them heading.
But rest assured, Kearney - like every coach or player in the NRL - wants his side to play finals football. And while that remains the end goal, he is also aware of his team's limitations and his players' short-comings.
Anxiety and brain explosions are still an issue. Sharpening their focus, decision making, and skills - even the basic fundamentals - remain work-ons. Improving in those areas are his primary focus.
Of course by now he'll have a firm idea of which individuals are up to the task or capable of improving and who he needs to cast aside ahead of next season. The performance of the side in the next few weeks will only make those decisions easier.
