Was talking about this with a coworker. What if he is cast as Howland Reed?
We think they may be doing a flashback with Ned/Athur Dayne, they need a Howland.
If there is a flashback he might also be the one to rally the north to Snow.
I just saw this in the last few days, newest speculation (and still just that, speculation and nothing more) is that he won't be Tarly or Greyjoy.
There were three casting calls he likely fit:
1) Pirate, man in his 40s to late 50s. Hes an infamous pirate who has terrorized seas all around the world. Cunning, ruthless, with a touch of madness.Hes a dangerous-looking man. A very good part this season.
That would be Euron Greyjoy
2) Father. Aged 50s to 60s, hes one of the greatest soldiers in Westeros- a humorless martinet, severe and intimidating. He demands martial discipline in the field and in his home. Its described as a very good part for next year and that hes centrally involved in a protagonists storyline.
That would be Tarly
3) Priest, in his 40s or 50s. A gruff ex-soldier who found religion. Now a no-nonsense rural priest who ministers to the poor of the countryside. Hes salt-of-the-earth man who has weathered many battles.
Now the rumors are that he'll be playing the priest role.