The NRL season is over and while the Rugby League World Cup is fast approaching, the more immediate concern for clubs is the November 1 deadline.
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All 17 teams have until then to extend their soon-to-be off-contract stars before they can negotiate with rival clubs.
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This November 1 deadline could be particularly busy, with a host of big names including Nathan Cleary, Latrell Mitchell, Cameron Munster and Sam Walker among others yet to be extended beyond 2027.
Here, foxsports.com.au looks at the players off-contract at your club at the end of 2027, who you should prioritise and the stars from rival clubs you could also snap up.
BRONCOS
Players of contract end of 2027: Phillip Coates, Dane Gagai, Ben Hunt, Josiah Karapani, Deine Mariner, Blake Mozer, Hayze Perham, Brendan Piakura, Ben Talty, Aublix Tawha, Xavier Willison
Analysis: The Broncos have locked up their main stars like Reece Walsh, Pat Carrigan, Ezra Mam and Kotoni Staggs beyond 2027 so they won’t be feeling the pressure to retain their core players. It will surely be Ben Hunt and Dane Gagai’s final seasons in the NRL. Young gun wingers Josiah Karapani and Deine Mariner are strong candidates for extensions to ensure Brisbane has secured depth in the outside backs, although it’s worth noting that the former is currently on thin ice with the club after a couple of off-field indiscretions this season. Xavier Willison though has to be the priority with rival clubs expected to circle him if he hits November 1. Accepting the award for Broncos player of the year, Willison stated he wishes to remain at the Broncos long-term. Because of a management change, Willison has put contract talks on hold. It has been reported though that the Broncos are willing to throw a four-year, $4 million deal at the gun forward. It’s a figure that some pundits disagree with, arguing the fact the Broncos of all clubs have to stump up that much speaks volumes not just to the state of the Brisbane but the NRL transfer market. “If it was the Wests Tigers offering Willison a million dollars a year, I’d probably understand it, but it’s the Brisbane Broncos,” journalist Paul Crawley said on NRL 360. “For generations they’ve stayed for unders and that’s what the Broncos are now, offering this young prop a million dollars.
It’s not Payne Haas. He’s won his first Paul Morgan Medal and he’s had a good season, but he’s not a million-dollar prop.”
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Premiership winner and former Australian Schoolboys star Brendan Piakura has a long future ahead of him and the Broncos won’t want him going anywhere given they’ll be without top forward Payne Haas from 2027, but Piakura’s injury and concussion history may give the club pause on tabling a big extension. They’ve signed NSW Origin prop Mitch Barnett to replace Haas – not that he’s really replaceable, however. Jonah Pezet will be trying to nail down the No. 7 jersey in 2027, but there’s still huge question marks over him as their long-term halfback given things haven’t worked out the way he would’ve liked at Parramatta.
Key target: While the Broncos have signed Mitch Barnett to replace Payne Haas, they might go for another top prop to bolster their forwards. Four-time premiership winner at Penrith Moses Leota has been linked with a move to several clubs with the Broncos being one. It sounds like Leota is keen to stay at Penrith, even if it means taking less than he may get elsewhere. If that is the case, Brisbane simply needs to throw everything it can at keeping Xavier Willison, who can be the long-term replacement for Haas.
Willison offer exposes Broncos concern? | 01:38
RAIDERS
Players off contract end of 2027: Sebastian Kris, Myles Martin, Matty Nicholson, Ethan Sanders, Xavier Savage, Chevy Stewart, Hudson Young
Analysis: The Raiders are in a tug of war with the Chiefs for Hudson Young. The star backrower was given permission to tour the facilities in Port Moresby and remains interested in a move to PNG, who can offer tax-free dollars. But the Raiders have countered with a massive $4 million contract offer over four years. Canberra is now the favourites to keep Young given the NRL have ruled that PNG’s likely offer to Young was below market value. It was a big boost for the Raiders given every player that has toured the PNG facilities has ended up signing with the Chiefs. Young should be the club’s first retention target. He’s gone from strength to strength each season and is the heartbeat of the Raiders’ forward pack. The torn Achilles complicates things, especially if Young is signed to a long-term deal. But he is just so important to the culture and feel of that forward pack. While potentially losing Young would hurt, what quells the pain somewhat is that the Raiders have reportedly come to terms of an extension with Matty Nicholson. Nicholson has been terrific for Canberra when he’s seen the field but his body has let him down at times. The England international is an exciting player and has a bright future in the league. Elsewhere, young half Ethan Sanders revealed to foxsports.com.au after winning Dally M Rookie of the Year that he has no intention to leave the nation’s capital. Sanders will be competing with Coby Black for the starting half spot next season although the Raiders could elect to move Ethan Strange to lock to accommodate both. As for Xavier Savage, he is a game-breaker on his day but hasn’t shown it enough in 2026. His best football is still in front of him though, so he should be a key retention target for the Raiders
Key target: The Raiders do boast one of the NRL’s best forward packs, but Josh Papalii is leaving the club at the end of this season as are Corey Horsburgh and Morgan Smithies who are both joining the Perth Bears. So the Raiders need a gun middle forward to replace the two Origin props and English international. And if Young leaves for the Chiefs they may consider an edge forward replacement and they’ll have the cap space. The middle forward they could go after is Penrith’s four-time premiership winner Moses Leota. He’s still playing very well and would bring great experience to a forward pack without Papalii. But if they want a young prop, Tigers big man Fonua Pole, 24, is a top option. His numbers just get better each season and he’s about to hit his peak years. He’s also quite reliable, playing more than 20 games a season in each of the past three years.
BULLDOGS
Players off contract end of 2027: Sosaia Alatini, Jaxson Allen, Matt Burton, Gordon Chan Kum Tong, Alekolasimi Jones, Max King, Freddy Lussick, Jesse McLean, Jethro Rinakama, Jaeman Salmon, Logan Spinks, Connor Votano, Mitchell Woods
Analysis: The Bulldogs landed a big win on the transfer market when they agreed to terms with second rower Jacob Preston. Now attention turns to the versatile Matt Burton. The club has indicated to Burton that his next contract offer will resemble that of a centre and not a five-eighth so that means a pay cut. Burton will no doubt be offered more from other clubs like Parramatta who are rumoured to be pencilling him in to be Jarome Luai’s replacement at six. Elsewhere, Max King emerged as a State of Origin player under Ciraldo and while he took a step back in 2026 the Bulldogs need to prioritise their front row stocks and King at minimum is a very solid first-grader who is obviously capable of much more. He had been linked with a potential move to the PNG Chiefs, but King shot down those rumours last month in an interview with SEN Radio. King said he would “love to be a Bulldog” and had not spoken to the Chiefs. Mitchell Woods has had a dreaded run with injury but if he can overcome them he’s seen as the long-term halfback to partner Lachlan Galvin in the halves.
Potential targets: They have Connor Tracey contracted until the end of 2028, but there are legitimate questions as to whether he is the long-term answer at fullback. Tracey is highly versatile and could shift to the centres or even to the bench as a utility, even if that would be hard to stomach given it would then invite criticism for signing him to a two-year extension in the first place. Tracey is usually pretty reliable and has a high workrate, although he had a stretch of poor defensive efforts last season. The only issue, at least when it comes to 2027, is there aren’t too many clear upgrades the Bulldogs could turn to. Trai Fuller is an intriguing option, although he has defensive deficiencies and the Bulldogs have built their identity on that side of the ball. Hayze Perham is also another smaller body, and if we’re talking about replacing Tracey you would have to think the Bulldogs are eyeing an upgrade instead of a lateral move. If that is the case, Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow and James Tedesco are the biggest names on the market. It’s hard to see Tedesco leaving the Roosters, so Tabuai-Fidow would be the dream outcome while Herbie Farnworth could be another alternative but the Roosters seem to have the inside track there.
Kurt Mann joins Wests Tigers | 00:31
SHARKS
Players off contract end of 2027: Thomas Dellow, Liam Ison, Riley Jones, Oregon Kaufusi, William Kennedy, Briton Nikora, Riley Pollard, Teig Wilton
Analysis: The Sharks have had one of, if not the most stable rosters in the comp over the past five years or so, but they are set to go through a bit of a shake up. Several players are heading out the door at the end of this season, including Sione Katoa, Cam McInnes and Jesse Ramien. Will Kennedy has signed consecutive one-year deals including putting pen to paper on an extension earlier this year. Briton Nikora and Teig Wilton are gun back rowers and given the amount of talents who are set to leave the club, Cronulla should have the money to keep both.
Potential targets: On Kennedy, he has been a steady performer over the past few seasons but the one-year deals indicate the Sharks are constantly on the search for an upgrade. Kennedy is a solid, reliable contributor who pops up in the right spot more often than not but perhaps lacks the ability to break the game apart. Cody Ramsey could appeal for Cronulla. A younger option than Kennedy who has an exciting future. His form at fullback filling in for James Tedesco at the Roosters has been excellent and it’s fair to say that more than a few fullback-needy teams have taken notice. Ramsey is probably more of a cut-price alternative than a clear upgrade though. In terms of fullbacks who are off-contract at the end of 2027 at the upper end of the market, Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow could be a realistic option given the salary cap squeeze at the Dolphins. James Tedesco and Tom Trbojevic are other alternatives, but getting to the back-end of their careers and by all reports it is more likely Tedesco hangs up the boots than plays elsewhere. Otherwise, again if the Sharks want an affordable alternative Trai Fuller is also off-contract but they would lose some of the consistency and defensive mettle that Kennedy offers.
360 panel floats Hynes switch | 03:07
DOLPHINS
Players off contract end of 2027: Jack Bostock, Herbie Farnworth, John Fineanganofo, Tom Flegler, Trai Fuller, Felise Kaufusi, Morgan Knowles, Connelly Lemuelu, Tevita Naufahu, LJ Nonu, Elijah Rasmussen, Sebastian Su’a, Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow
Analysis: Can they keep their star backline foursome of Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow, Selwyn Cobbo, Jack Bostock and Herbie Farnworth? Well, they will keep at least one with Cobbo re-signing while Kulikefu Finefeuiaki also extended in a big boost after a breakout season that saw him earn State of Origin selection. PNG will surely coming hunting with offers at least one will find too good to refuse. Bostock’s price will shoot through the roof after he made his Origin debut this year while he has also been named in the Kangaroos squad. Farnworth has indicated that he wants to stay but there’s been rumours that the Roosters are circling. Then there is Tabuai-Fidow, one of the most electric players in the game while he also improved on the defensive side of the ball. Braith Anasta said earlier in the year that it would be “nearly impossible” for the Dolphins to keep both Tabuai-Fidow and Farnworth, who are expected to command the most money on the open market. That is especially true if the Roosters are interested in Farnworth, with Phil Rothfield reporting the premiers “basically have an open chequebook for him”, which may well force the Dolphins’ hand.
Potential targets: This side is flooded with talent in the backs and has one of the best halfbacks in the competition leading them around. With Max Plath emerging as a State of Origin star at lock, they’re fairly well-rounded. While they’re great with the ball, they have let themselves down defensively and need to stiffen up the middle of the park. Luron Patea is behind Moses Leota and Lindsay Smith at Penrith. Teams have had success signing Panthers who can’t make the starting side due to all their premiership winners holding them back. Patea is only 21 and comes from an uncompromising system built on toughness. J’maine Hopgood is a Queenslander who has been in Sydney for a long time now and may be tempted to a move closer to home and would fit the mould of what the Dolphins are after.
Finefeuiaki signs new Dolphins deal | 00:32
TITANS
Players off contract end of 2027: Cooper Bai, Adam Christensen, Jaylan De Groot, Siale Faeamani, Max Feagai, Moeaki Fotuaika, Tony Francis, Brock Gray, Zane Harrison, Lachlan Ilias, Sunny Kama, Oliver Pascoe, Josh Patston, Chris Randall, Luke Sommerton, Jensen Taumoepeau
Analysis: Josh Hannay is trying to lock down his young halfback Zane Harrison before November 1 which is understandable given his potential. But it is going to come at a cost. Harrison’s management is after a contract which will see him paid up to $900,000 a season. It’s a lot for a young, albeit promising, halfback who has only 11 first grade games to his name. But the Titans have been stuck in the NRL wilderness for so long and been searching for their long-term halfback too, so they may simply need to pay up. It’s not like the pressure is only on the Titans though. Harrison is reported to have a $700,000 contract on the table with ratchets in it. Braith Anasta said on NRL 360 that the young halfback and his management are making a “very dangerous” gamble if he does not play well enough in 2027 to warrant a big contract. Harrison put his name up in lights after booting a matchwinning field goal against Penrith last month and has looked very measured for a young halfback. Ultimately young halves like him are like gold, so the Titans need to retain him. The Titans landed a big blow on the player market last month when they extended Jojo Fifita until the end of 2029. Meanwhile, Oliver Pascoe continues to improve after initially coming to the Titans on a 12-week train-and-trial contract in 2025 and is a cut-price but effective option to extend at hooker.
Potential targets: Tino Fa’asuamaleaui needs a bit more support in the middle. They don’t need flashy, wide-running backrowers. They need a few rocks in the middle to tighten up their defence which is pedestrian at times. J’maine Hopgood would be the perfect type of player to stand in the middle of the park and hold them together. Broncos prop Xavier Willison has been improving constantly and he showed against Penrith how important a prop is in a tight, low-scoring game.
Harrison set to demand monster deal? | 02:58
SEA EAGLES
Players off contract end of 2027: Luke Brooks, Hugo Hart, Lehi Hopoate, Onitoni Large, Caleb Navale, Jackson Shereb, Ben Trbojevic, Jake Trbojevic, Tom Trbojevic, Corey Waddell, Navren Willett
Analysis: All three Trbojevic brothers will be on the open market. Jake will likely retire after 2027, but what will happen with the best of the trio, Tom? He suffered yet another hamstring injury earlier this year and has young guns Lehi Hopoate and Tolutau Koula who can play fullback. Tom’s a club legend and will be 31 when the 2028 season starts and Manly will be wary that other clubs may come for Hopoate if Turbo is resigned. It will be a tough conversation coach Kieran Foran has to have. Tom is synonymous with everything Manly. But is he worth keeping at this point of his career if it means they can’t retain their young talent? And is Trbojevic durable enough to continue at fullback or should Manly hand the keys to Hopoate. Younger brother Ben is just 24 and an established player in the starting side and will no doubt want to extend his deal. Luke Brooks is recovering from an ACL injury and with the emergence of Joey Walsh, he might be looking for a new home. Reports earlier this year suggested Manly won’t stand in his way if he finds a long-term deal elsewhere.
Potential targets: They need a prop and it would be ideal if it was a game-breaking forward to take the pressure off Haumole Olakau’atu. Of course, those kinds of players don’t just grow on trees. The dream target would be Xavier Willison. He won’t come cheap, but that is where the conversation on the Trbojevic brothers and Brooks comes in. If they are able to free up enough money, Willison would be the exact kind of player who can bring an explosive element to this forward pack.
KNIGHTS
Players off contract end of 2027: Matt Arthur, Bradman Best, Mat Croker, Harrison Graham, Fletcher Hunt, Asu Kepaoa, Jacob Saifiti, Elijah Salesa-Leaumoana, Pasami Saulo, James Schiller
Analysis: The Knights will be doing all they can to assure Bradman Best stays at the club and have reportedly put a revised offer to him, meaning the ball is now in Best’s court. He’s been terrific this season under new coach Justin Holbrook, earning a Blues recall in the decider where he was one of the best players on the field. He’s one of a number of outside backs contracted until the end of next season. Fletcher Hunt is the other. The Cessnock junior has flashed brilliance at times this season and has showed off his versatility but with the Knights boasting a stacked backline, he isn’t a regular starter. However, expect him to slot into the centres next season to replace Dane Gagai. It’s hard to see the Knights letting him walk out the door. Mat Croker is enjoying a career year and is a steady presence in the middle of the field. Dom Young is an interesting one. When on, he can be a gamebreaker but the difference between his best and worst is vast. Jacob Saifiti is a veteran prop who had been in great form before injury struck.
Potential targets: Newcastle’s forward pack has exceeded expectations this season given enforcer Leo Thompson left the club in the off-season, but it’d be wise to look at bolstering the engine room when the transfer window opens in three months. They already have plenty of talent and depth in the second row with Jermaine McEwen, Francis Manuleleua and Dylan Lucas, so the focus should be the front row. The Knights have built the kind of culture where Holbrook is able to get the most out of his players regardless of pure talent, so there isn’t a real need to go spending big money, which makes it unlikely they’d be able to afford Xavier Willison. Oregon Kaufusi is the kind of cut-price option they could look to. But realistically, retaining the likes of Croker and Saifiti should be the priority.
Ponga: “It hurts so much!” | 00:31
STORM
Players off contract end of 2027: Xavier Coates, Jack Hetherington, Jack Howarth, Eliesa Katoa, Josh King, Ativalu Lisati, Cameron Munster, Josiah Pahulu, Trent Toelau, Kelma Tuilagi, Stefano Utoikamanu, Manaia Waitere
Analysis: A bunch of stars can talk with rivals clubs from November 1 including Cameron Munster, Xavier Coates, Stefano Utoikamanu and, surprisingly, Harry Grant. It was revealed that the superstar hooker has a player option in his contract that means he could go to the open market on November 1, and all indications at this point are that Grant will do exactly that. He has every right to as well. It doesn’t mean Grant will leave, because the Storm will be doing everything in their power to keep the Queensland Maroons representative. But it could also put Munster closer to the exit door. The 31-year-old has been linked with a potential move to the PNG Chiefs in 2028 and said in July that he had “taken pay cuts” throughout this career. While adding that didn’t guarantee he wouldn’t do the same again, he then said he has to “make sure my family’s in a great position long-term”. In other words, at 31 years old this may be Munster’s last chance to get a really lucrative deal and the chance to be part of the Chiefs’ inaugural team would be appealing.
The Storm are also desperate for big bodies in the middle so Utoikamanu should be prioritised as he’s played pretty well for them since coming over from the Tigers. The future of Eliesa Katoa will be a big talking point in the off-season. He was ruled out for the entire 2026 season after suffering a life-threatening brain bleed while playing for Tonga last year. He’s been an irreplaceable loss for the Storm this season. If he’s cleared to make a comeback they need him. Coates is another important one because the Storm are desperate for big flyers out wide and lose Will Warbrick to the Warriors in 2027.
Potential targets: They don’t tend to spend big on players from other clubs, but rather get undervalued footballers and turn them into better players. In saying that, they need a prop badly. Since Nelson Asofa-Solomona left the club they’ve struggled to intimidate opposition forward packs. Spencer Leniu would complement the team well and give their champion spine chances to put points on the board, but appears to be Parramatta-bound. Sharks backrower Teig Wilton would be a good option to beef-up the pack.
Braith speaks on Munster Broncos links | 04:22
WARRIORS
Players off contract end of 2027: Kurt Capewell, Kahu Capper, Wayde Egan, Samuel Healey, Ali Leiataua, Te Maire Martin, Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad
Analysis: There aren’t too many major question marks for the Warriors given they extended both Te Maire Martin and Chanel Harris-Tavita in the space of two months. That came after Tanah Boyd also signed on until 2029, all but locking up the Warriors’ halves picture for the long-term. It was a handy signing spree given Luke Metcalf and Jett Cleary’s departure. It doesn’t mean there aren’t some priority moves the Warriors will need to make, starting with hooker Wayde Egan. Fresh off being named Dally M Hooker of the Year, it is hard to see him leaving because he is the kind of player the Warriors simply have to re-sign. Otherwise, he will attract the interest of rivals clubs thanks to his work out of dummy half. The Warriors have already shown an urgency to lock down top talent, having also extended Jackson Ford in August. Elsewhere, Adam Pompey’s move to Melbourne was confirmed last month. He had fallen out of favour and wasn’t in coach Andrew Webster’s starting side, but was a decent depth option.
Potential targets: If the Warriors also lose Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad they’ll want to find another centre. Sebastian Kris might be a good value buy. Would they also look at young Bronco Josiah Karapani? With their spine fairly settled, they might go for another forward to improve their depth. Kiwi Briton Nikora might even be convinced to return home.
COWBOYS
Players off contract end of 2027: Coen Hess, Zac Laybutt, Soni Luke, Jeremiah Nanai, Jason Taumalolo, Viliami Vailea
Analysis: The Cowboys are in a good place when it comes to their roster make up. Players at key positions are locked down long-term with emerging talent coming through. Jeremiah Nanai should be the Cowboys’ first priority on the retention front. A shoulder injury has robbed the athletic edge forward of a heap of playing time this season, but he hit the ground running when returned in Round 16, showing his class in two games to earn selection for the Maroons in Game III. He’s a point of difference for what is a potent Cowboys attack. Jason Taumalolo will be 32 by the end of next season so may decide to hang up the boots. Zac Laybutt has been in and out of the Cowboys side this season. He obviously has the ability to be a consistent starter but he may be squeezed out of Townsville given the talent in the club’s outside backs stocks. Soni Luke has made a decent impact off the bench in his first season at the Cowboys. There won’t be a rush to sign him from November 1 so we’ll likely see his next contract sorted out at some stage next season.
Potential targets: Given their location, it’s harder for the Cowboys to attract free agency talent over other clubs down south. This is a team with plenty of talent in the backline, which will be bolstered further by the arrival of Sione Katoa and Jesse Ramien next year. With Coen Hess and Taumalolo unsigned beyond next season, could the Cowboys make a play at Tom Flegler? The Dolphins prop was born and raised in Tully, two hours north of Townsville, so it’d be a homecoming of sorts.
EELS
Players off contract end of 2027: Josh Addo-Carr, Jack de Belin, Matt Doorey, Harrison Edwards, Jezaiah Funa-Iuta, J’maine Hopgood, Kitione Kautoga, Brian Kelly, William Latu, Luca Moretti, Araz Nanva, Joash Papalii, Jordan Samrani, Bailey Simonsson, Ryley Smith, Sam Tuivaiti, Jack Williams
Analysis: The Eels have a bit of work to do in the coming months given the dearth of talent they have coming off-contract. With that said, there are no superstars on this list that are genuine priorities, so a clean-out could be on the cards outside of a host of players who could prove crucial to this squad. Ryley Smith is a promising hooker who is highly regarded but he fell down the pecking order this season, so it remains to be seen if he is in the club’s plans moving forward. Josh Addo-Carr future at the club is shrouded in mystery after he allegedly tested positive to cocaine while driving and reports suggest he could depart. Matt Doorey was having a strong season this year until injury struck while Joash Papalii looks to be surplus to requirements, given Jarome Luai’s arrival in 2027. Workhorse J’maine Hopgood does a lot of clean up work in the middle of the field and the Eels won’t want him leaving the club, especially seeing he is one of a handful of players with rep experience. Meanwhile, Brian Kelly had an impressive season on the wing and has arguably become a fan favourite and will almost certainly be retained.
Potential targets: The Eels will have Jarome Luai to partner Mitch Moses in 2027 but beyond next season, it’s likely Ronald Volkman will slot in. While he had an impressive season this year, Ryles’ signing Luai indicates he is on the lookout for improvements in the halves and Matt Burton has been floated as a potential option. Burton comes off contract with the Bulldogs at the end of next season but is long odds to stay there given the abundance of playmaking talent in the ranks. He has consistently been linked with a move to the Bears but could remain in Sydney with an Eels switch.
Will Spencer Leniu land at Parramatta? | 02:45
PANTHERS
Players off contract end of 2027: Nathan Cleary, Sione Fonua, Moses Leota, Liam Martin, Isaiah Papali’i, Luron Patea, Billy Scott, Blaize Talagi, Isaah Yeo
Analysis: In terms of quantity, it isn’t the longest list of names in this article, but it sure is the biggest if we’re judging on quality. If Nathan Cleary hits the open market, he’ll be the most prized free agent in NRL history. Isaah Yeo wouldn’t be far behind. However, it’s been reported the Panthers are in the box seat to retain both players on fresh deals that could see them finish their playing days at the foot of the mountain. Liam Martin is another priority signing for the club and he postponed his negotiations until Penrith’s campaign was over. However, he is seeking a mammoth pay rise, hoping to secure a deal worth seven figures to join the upper echelons of the club’s earners. With Brian To’o confirmed to be moving on, the Panthers have some salary cap space freed up, while Moses Leota was previously given permission to test the open market. However, losing their veteran prop shapes as a monumental blow for Penrith given Liam Henry is on the move. Paul Alamoti has also been retained in a bid to keep him off the open market, while Blaize Talagi looks to also have a future in the outside backs with Jett Cleary arriving to provide reinforcements to the club’s halves stocks.
Potential targets: It’ll all depend on who they’re able to retain and what salary cap space is left — but it’s clear they need to bolster their middle forward stocks, especially if Leota is to depart alongside Henry and Scott Sorensen. While Penrith have historically relied on their juniors to come through and fill vacant slots, as Billy Phillips did this year, it will be tough for youngsters to fill out the multiple role players they need in the middle. Max King could be an outside shout, having been linked with an exit given he is off-contract at could hit the open market come November 1. However, his price tag could be too high, meaning players like Oregon Kaufusi, Josh Patston, Pasami Saulo and Kaiden Lahrs could be interesting recruitment options for Penrith.
Talagi future under the microscope | 02:11
RABBITOHS
Players off contract end of 2027: Euan Aitken, Salesi Ataata, David Fifita, Thomas Fletcher, Bronson Garlick, Jonah Glover, Campbell Graham, Matthew Humphries, Elijah Keung, Edward Kosi, Peter Mamouzelos, Latrell Mitchell, Tyrone Munro, Talanoa Penitani, Latrell Siegwalt, Jayden Sullivan, Isaiah Tass, Jack Wighton
Analysis: The Bunnies have a wave of players without a deal beyond 2027, and that list includes some big names. The headline is obviously Latrell Mitchell. Mitchell isn’t getting any younger and injuries have plagued his career at South Sydney but he showed when on the park this season that he’s still one of the most dangerous players in the comp. It’s hard to see Mitchell signing anywhere else, however the fact the club have no desire to rush into resigning him could be a major factor in his decision. The superstar centre’s price tag will push well above the $1 million mark and it remains to be seen if the Rabbitohs will be willing to fork out that price tag, or a club like the Perth Bears make a play with a significant amount of cap space available for a marquee signing. David Fifita has been sound in the first year of his time at the Rabbitohs and is reportedly close to agreeing on an extension.
Elsewhere, Campbell Graham hasn’t played a whole lot of footy in recent seasons but he’s been able to play 12 games this year and is an obvious starter in their backline. He’s considered a fringe rep player and a real asset to this Rabbitohs side whether he plays on the wing or in the centres. The future of Jack Wighton beyond his current deal remains uncertain, while the likes of Euan Aitken, Bronson Garlick and Latrell Siegwalt are handy players to have in your squad and could be retained at the right price. Elsewhere, rising playmaker Jonah Glover shapes as an interesting one, given he has previously been considered an impressive up-and-coming playmaker after being poached from the Dragons. Ashton Ward looks to have locked those spots down, while Cody Walker’s future could play a role in the club’s decision surrounding Glover.
Potential targets: The Rabbitohs will need to look at bolstering their halves. Walker is expected to go around for another season in 2027 but retirement beckons following that. Ward has been solid at haflback and could keep kicking on while Glover is waiting in the wings, but at this stage, whether they emerge as a viable halves pairing is uncertain. Given the amount of players they have coming off-contract, it’s hard to see them making a splash for a big-name playmaker. However, Tom Dearden has been consistently linked with a move to Sydney and the Rabbitohs shape as a potentially perfect destination given they need a playmaker to turn them from a finals team to a title contender.
Latrell set for open market | 01:43
DRAGONS
Players off contract end of 2027: Hayden Buchanan, David Fale, Kyle Flanagan, Clinton Gutherson, Valentine Holmes, Josh Kerr, Lyhkan King-Togia, Cyrus Stanley-Traill, Moses Suli, Nick Tsougranis
Analysis: The Dragons have done an excellent job to re-sign a host of rising stars in the Couchman twins, Loko Pasifiki Tonga and Jacob Halangahu as well as a number of impressive recruits. So arguably their biggest decisions come in the form of some veteran stars. The futures of Valentine Holmes and Clint Gutherson are uncertain, with Gutherson in particular having an especially quiet season. Holmes could have some suitors on the open market or a shift to the Super League could be on the cards, but he remains an experienced figure and could be a crucial face in Dean Young’s backline. Gutherson’s place in this side, meanwhile, looks considerably more uncertain with the arrival of Scott Drinkwater — meaning the club will have to make a big call. Elsewhere, Moses Suli has reportedly been told he’s free to explore his options. Lhykan King-Togia has a stack of ability but he hasn’t been able to deliver thus far in first grade. Regardless, the Red V may be forced to make a decision between him and Kyle Flanagan as to who remains in the club’s halves ranks as back-up.
Potential targets: The Dragons could do with some reinforcements in the outside backs to join the likes of Phil Sami, especially given the departure of Christian Tuipulotu who will join St Helens in the Super League and Tyrell Sloan, who has signed with Castleford Tigers. Blake Wilson is without a contract for 2027, while Warriors flyer Rocco Berry has also been linked with a move to the Storm and the Dragons could make attempts to hijack that deal. Elsewhere, the likes of Seb Kris could be an option after he was reportedly given permission to test the open market before November 1, meaning he could cut his time at the Raiders short and make a switch, while his teammate Xavier Savage is also free to negotiate with rivals come November 1.
ROOSTERS
Players off contract end of 2027: Egan Butcher, Nat Butcher, Jake Elliott, Salesi Foketi, Spencer Leniu, Taylor Losalu, Junior Pauga, Victor Radley, Cody Ramsey, Billy Smith, James Tedesco, De La Salle Va’a, Sam Walker
Analysis: A few standout players on this list. They won’t all be able to retained, so the Roosters have some tough decisions to make. Seldom do the Roosters lose a player they want to desperately keep so don’t expect Sam Walker to depart the club at the end of next season. Walker’s value has skyrocketed this season given his form in the State of Origin arena and his role in the club’s premiership in 2026. He’s now considered one of the game’s elite halves and will command money to match his title-winning tag. His agent has suggested that Walker has no issue testing his value on the open market, but it’s unlikely the Roosters let it get to that stage despite a mammoth $1.5 million price tag being floated to secure his signature. James Tedesco isn’t showing any signs of slowing down although the Roosters won’t rush into a decision with their captain despite his recent Clive Churchill Medal win. Victor Radley is a club stalwart who tasted Origin for the first time this season. Despite some off-field turbulence, expect the Roosters re-sign the gun middle forward who got a taste of the Origin arena this season. Spencer Leniu’s future at the club looks to be up and he is set to make a move to the Eels according to a wave of reports. Due to the emergence of Naufahu Whyte in recent seasons, Leniu hasn’t had the impact at the club that he probably would’ve liked since joining from Penrith. Taylor Losalu and Salesi Foketi are two young forwards the club would like to keep and by all reports Foketi is set to extend. Meanwhile, Cody Ramsey’s path to fullback is blocked by Tedesco and Tedesco’s likely successor Rex Bassingthwaighte.
Potential targets: The Roosters face an interesting period come November 1, when it comes to targeting players. With the likes of James Tedesco and Sam Walker coming off-contract, they could either have a ton of money to spend if any of these players leave, or have barely any money left in their salary cap if they try to extend the majority of their off-contract stars. If they are able to keep a ton of money in their cap, don’t be surprised if they look to target some of the game’s best players and one man has been consistently linked with a move — Herbie Farnworth. While the English gun has indicated he has a desire to remain at the Dolphins, the Roosters could throw the kitchen sink at the best centre in the game in order to fill some big backline holes, with Mark Nawaqanitawase leaving for rugby union. However, they could also decide to try and lure some stars out of the 15-man code with the Rugby World Cup done and dusted before the start of 2028. This could see them try to lure back Joseph Manu or Joseph Suaalii, while Max Jorgensen has constantly been linked with the side. If they don’t have a ton of money left in their cap, they will need to take a different approach and look to either sign bargain buys or promote within their pathways system. Ethan Roberts, Nick Tsougranis, Francis Manuleleua and Tevita Naifahu are options that it will come at a much cheaper price than the elite players of the NRL.
Anasta: “You got it wrong!” | 00:40
TIGERS
Players off-contract end of 2027: Ethan Roberts, Fonua Pole, Jack Madden, Junior Tupou, Latu Fainu, Patrick Herbert, Royce Hunt, Samuela Fainu
Analysis: The departure of Jarome Luai has allowed the Tigers to offer Latu and Samuela Fainu long-term extensions. According to multiple reports, this is the priority on the club’s to-do list before November 1, having already re-signed Jahream Bula, Taylan May, Sunia Turuva and Terrell May. The retention of the brothers is paramount, with Samuela seen as a future captain of the club, while Latu has been earmarked to replace Luai in the No. 6 jersey. Following this, they will decide on the status of Fonua Pole. One of the club’s best last season, he has struggled to find the same consistency during this year’s campaign. Moved to the interchange bench on multiple occasions, he is set to command interest from other clubs and his price tag may be too much for the Tigers to pay. Royce Hunt has been linked with a move to the Super League and is unlikely to be retained and he could be joined in the overseas competition by Jock Madden. While Madden is the perfect back-up playmaker for the Tigers, he could easily move abroad, having previously found himself on the radar of multiple Super League teams and with Jake Averillo arriving could slip down the pecking order. The same can be said for the remaining off-contract trio. The re-signing of Ethan Roberts isn’t seen as a priority, but he has shown glimpses of his potential. And depending on what they are willing to sign for, Junior Tupou and Patrick Herbert may be moved on while Solomone Saukuru was handed a fresh deal until the end of 2028.
Potential targets: The pending arrival of Averillo will improve the club’s backline depth, while their long-term spine has already been decided. This means the Tigers will focus on trying to target some middles as they shore up their stocks in the forwards. In an ideal world, they would love to land either Thomas Flegler or Spencer Leniu, but it’s hard to see this happening given their limited salary cap funds. Instead, they will need to find some bargain buys and focus on poaching some realistic options. Although they have yet to kick on in the NRL, Caleb Navale (Sea Eagles), Cyrus Stanley-Traill (Dragons), Luron Patea (Panthers) and Salesi Ataata (Rabbitohs) should all find themselves on the side’s radar and they fit in perfectly with the club’s rebuilding theme.
