They may be game to take the helm we hear (5)

I believe the answer is:

cocks

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'they' is the definition.
Both the answer and definition are plural nouns.
Perhaps you can see a link between them that I don't see?

I don't understand the remainder of the clue.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for cocks that I've seen before include "Male birds" , "Raises" , "poultry" , "Roosters" , "Adult male chickens" .)

I've seen this clue in The Globe and Mail.

Want a hint initially instead of a full solution? Install my app