The NRL is investigating a photo of Cowboys star Valentine Holmes with a white bag in his mouth.

The image surfaced in the early hours of this morning on an Instagram story, and has since been deleted.

Nine and Sydney Morning Herald Senior Sports Reporter Michael Chammas broke the story and told The Continuous Call Team the NRL Integrity Unit is investigating the matter.

“This is fresh for the NRL, they weren’t aware of it until this morning a few hours ago,” Chammas said.

“I think everyone wants to get to the bottom of the facts first.”

It’s unclear what’s in the bag and the Cowboys have confirmed they’re aware of the photo and are investigating, as well as assisting the NRL Integrity Unit.

See more highlights from The Continuous Call Team below.

Image: NRL Imagery – Scott Davis