While the annual preseason showdown with Souths typically takes place a fortnight out from round one, the Rabbitohs participation in the NRL's Las Vegas season-opener has seen it moved forward.

The Dragons will return to what's become a traditional pre-season home in Mudgee to take on the Tigers in round two of the Challenge a week later, with the two hit-outs set to be the club's first under Flanagan.

While the draw is yet to be officially released, early reports have the Dragons beginning their season with a two-week road double in Queensland against the Titans and Dolphins.

They're then set to take on the Sharks and Sea Eagles at one of the club's homes, before taking on the Knights in Newcastle. It sees them avoid top-four sides, but the road swing shapes as a tough start.

It's widely regarded as a snub, but Dragons fans may not be too disappointed at reports their club is set to be snubbed from the annual Magic Round given it's been the scene of some dismal recent showings.

They're yet to win a match at the showpiece event, with a loss to the Tigers at last year's gala the final straw that saw Anthony Griffin sacked just a game later.