The NRL season has come to an end in 2024, but the transfer market’s only just starting to heat up as the November 1 deadline looms.
Players whose contracts end after the 2025 season are free to sit down to discuss contracts with rival clubs for 2026 and beyond on that date.
NRL powerbrokers across the competition are now working tirelessly to make sure they lock in key retention targets, but not every player can be re-signed.
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And a host of big-name stars, including James Tedesco, Daly Cherry-Evans and Ryan Papenhuyzen could all be set to hit the open market.
Here foxsports.com.au has broken down every club’s current salary cap position, analysing potential player movements and retention targets ahead of the November 1 deadline!
BRONCOS
Off-contract 2024: Corey Oates, Delouise Hoeter, Josiah Karapani, Martin Taupau
Off-contract 2025: Adam Reynolds, Blake Mozer, Corey Jensen, Cory Paix, Fletcher Baker, Jack Gosiewski, Jaiyden Hunt, Kobe Hetherington, Kotoni Staggs, Reece Walsh, Selwyn Cobbo, Tyson Smoothy, Xavier Willison
There’s a good portion of the Broncos squad listed above, with the big names being Reece Walsh, Selwyn Cobbo and Adam Reynolds who are all free to negotiate with rivals for 2026 come November 1. Reynolds, 34, signed a contract extension for the 2025 season after many expected him to retire. However, the former Rabbitohs flyer’s next campaign will be his last. Corey Oates won’t be handed a new contract at the Broncos, and it wasn’t expected Martin Taupau would either but incoming coach Michael Maguire could have other plans. Meanwhile Brisbane powerbrokers have reportedly been locked in contract negotiations to retain superstar fullback Reece Walsh. It has been reported that the 22-year-old is set to sign a fresh four-year, $4.4 million deal and will commit his future to the Red Hill club after a lengthy period of negotiations. “It’s an absolute steal if he can stay on the field,” Andrew Johns said of the potential contract. Elsewhere, star flyer Selwyn Cobbo is set to hit the open market with the Broncos having failed to table a contract extension as it stands according to The Daily Telegraph. Cobbo reportedly wants to remain at the Broncos, but it remains to be seen if they have to cap space to accommodate his contract, with league legend Corey Parker tipping him to potentially field offers with $1 million per-season. Meanwhile, Kotoni Staggs is also without a deal for 2026 and had a barnstorming end to the season, which could see him become a priority retention target in Red Hill. Maguire says he is operating off a clean slate, with the likes of Kobe Hetherington, who has been linked to the Tigers, and hooker reserve Cory Paix set to be given a chance in pre-season training to play for their future at the club. With Pat Carrigan, Payne Haas, and Walsh all signing long-term deals, Brisbane’s salary cap is set to be stretched thin. That could mean a talented prop like Xavier Willison is forced out, with the promising forward set to command plenty of attention after November 1.
2025 losses: Tristan Sailor (St Helens)
RAIDERS
Off-contract 2024: James Schiller, Josh Papali’i (Mutual Option for 2025), Peter Hola, Hohepa Puru (Mutual Option for 2025)
Off-contract 2025: Albert Hopoate, Danny Levi, Emre Guler, Simi Sasagi, Tom Starling, Xavier Savage
While there’s no massive name on this list the Raiders will be desperate to keep, there’s a number of crucial first-string players they will be hopeful of retaining. Xavier Savage has become a key member of the Raiders’ backline, and he will likely have some suitors chasing his signature considering he’s a lethal attacking weapon and is only going to get better with age. He’s got years ahead of him in the NRL and is only 22. Kaeo Weekes was set to be a November 1 player until the Raiders extended the speedster until the end of 2027. He likely starts 2025 as Canberra’s fullback with Jordan Rapana heading to the Super League. Tom Starling was impressive to close out the season and his output was impressive at hooker. He’s likely cemented his spot as the club’s No.9 for years to come, with Zac Woolford departing for the Super League and Danny Levi being given permission to negotiate with rivals according to The Daily Telegraph. It remains to be seen if another club will come into the picture and make a play for his services, but he’s reportedly free to leave if he can find another deal. Veterans Rapana and Elliott Whitehead will both depart for the Super League, signing with Hull FC and the Catalans Dragons respectively. Meanwhile, it remains to be seen whether Josh Papalii will play on in 2025, with a mutual option in place for him to carry on. He celebrated his 300th NRL game milestone in 2024, and the veteran Maroons enforcer showed no signs of slowing down to close out Canberra’s campaign. Ricky Stuart will be hopeful he decides to play on next year. James Schiller had some big moments early in the season which in turn led to interest from rival clubs. He cashed in, with the outside back reportedly signing a deal to join the Knights in 2025.
2025 gains: Ethan Sanders (Eels), Myles Martin (Knights), Savelio Tamale (Dragons).
2025 losses: Elliott Whitehead (Catalans Dragons), Nick Cotric (Catalans Dragons), Zac Woolford (Huddersfield Giants), Jordan Rapana (Hull FC)
BULLDOGS
Off-contract 2024: Blake Wilson, Chris Patolo, Hayze Perham, Liam Knight
Off-contract 2025: Blake Taaffe, Bronson Xerri, Daniel Suluka-Fifita, Drew Hutchison, Jaeman Salmon, Jake Turpin, Jordan Samrani, Josh Addo-Carr, Kitione Kautoga, Kurt Mann, Kurtis Morrin, Ryan Sutton, Toby Sexton
There’s some big decisions to be made at Belmore. None bigger than the contract situation of star flyer Josh Addo-Carr, who previously sat down with the NRL Integrity Unit to explain himself after he tested positive to cocaine in a road side drug test. His future as a Bulldogs player is reportedly up in the air, and it remains to be seen if he will have his contract torn up. Bulldogs supremo Phil Gould said “somehow, somewhere, he’s going to have to explain to himself and explain to people that matter exactly how that’s happened and why it’s happened” after his story was said to have changed. Elsewhere, after beginning the year as the club’s second-string halfback, Toby Sexton revealed to The Daily Telegraph he hadn’t begun talks on an extension to remain at the Bulldogs. “No talks at the moment,” Sexton said. “I’ll leave that up to my manager. My job is to play footy so I’ll just continue to focus on that.” However, Bulldogs management will likely move to tie up his services before he hits the open market, showing he’s got what it takes the be the club’s long-term No.7 to close out the year. Bronson Xerri also enjoyed an impressive return to first grade and will almost certainly be a retention target, while the versatile Kurt Mann has proven to be a key cog in this Canterbury-Bankstown forward pack. The club did the right thing by extending Josh Curran until the end of 2026 before he hit free agency, rewarding the former Warrior after a terrific debut season in blue and white. It’s unlikely Mann will be allowed to hit free agency either. Meanwhile, flyer Blake Wilson has previously been linked with a move to the Eels. However, considering Addo-Carr’s position and the departure of winger Jeral Skelton, Wilson will likely be a man the Bulldogs will be desperate to keep.
2025 gains: Tom Amone (Leigh Leopards), Sitili Tupouniua (Sydney Roosters)
2025 losses: Jeral Skelton (Wests Tigers)
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DOLPHINS
Off-contract 2024: Anthony Milford, Edrick Lee, Jesse Bromwich, Mason Teague (Mutual Option for 2025), Robert Jennings (Mutual Option for 2025), Tesi Niu, Valynce Te Whare
Off-contract 2025: Connelly Lemuelu, Felise Kaufusi, Harrison Graham, Josh Kerr, Kenneath Bromwich, Mark Nicholls, Sean O’Sullivan
The Dolphins are facing somewhat of a roster clear out after only two seasons in the top grade. Tevita Pangai Junior, who only joined the club mid-season, alongside Euan Aitken, who has signed with the Rabbitohs will depart the 17th franchise. Meanwhile, Jarrod Wallace was granted a mid-season release to head overseas while veteran prop Jesse Bromwich hung up the boots. Valynce Te Whare is also on the lookout for a new club, while the futures of Mason Teague and Rob Jennings remain up in the air, with both having mutual options for the 2025 season. Once again, the Dolphins have recruited well. Daniel Saifiti, Junior Tupou, Kulikefu Finefeuiaki and Max Feagai will all join Kristian Woolf’s squad. Saifiti and Finefeuaki are expected to slot straight into the Dolphins’ best 17 while Tupou and Feagai bolster the club’s outside backs depth. There are real contract headaches that could still come on November 1. Back rower Connelly Lemuelu has been a revelation on the edge for the Dolphins and will be a retention target, with rivals almost certain to put in bids to lure him away from the club. Meanwhile, Sean O’Sullivan found himself out of favour to start the year, but finished his year as one of the club’s starting halves and was strong. Considering the lack of halves depth across the competition, he will almost certainly be a player the Dolphins will want to keep, bolstering their playmaking stocks. It remains to be seen whether Harrison Graham and Josh Kerr will be offered new deals, but it’s worth noting that Kerr had one of his better seasons at NRL level. The Dolphins could do worse than offering the 28-year-old an extension. Felise Kaufusi, Kenny Bromwich and Mark Nicholls could be coming to the bookend of their respective NRL careers. Kaufusi is sure to still attract interest if he hits November 1 without a new deal from the Dolphins. It was expected Anthony Milford would depart the club this off-season but it has been reported that the 30-year-old has been offered a one-year extension.
2025 losses: Tevita Pangai Junior (Catalans), Euan Aitken (Rabbitohs)
2025 gains: Junior Tupou (Wests Tigers), Kulikefu Finefeuiaki (Cowboys), Daniel Saifiti (Knights), Max Feagai (Dragons)
SHARKS
Off-contract 2024: Billy Burns, Jack Williams, Jayden Berrell, Niwhai Puru, Siteni Taukamo, Tom Hazelton (Club Option for 2025), Oregon Kaufusi (Mutual Option for 2025)
Off-contract 2025: Braydon Trindall, Briton Nikora, Cameron McInnes, Daniel Atkinson, Kade Dykes, Ronaldo Mulitalo, Sam Stonestreet, Teig Wilton, Tukupa-Ke Hau Tapuha, William Kennedy
Let’s start with the players who, as it stands, can negotiate with rivals for the 2025 season. Oregon Kaufusi, who has been a crucial front rower for the Sharks, has reportedly taken his option up for the 2025 season and will remain at the club, however he still will be free to negotiate with rivals come November 1. Tom Hazelton has a club option for the 2025 season, and as it stands it remains to be seen if he will remain at the Sharks. However, considering his form and the fact he’s a fan favourite, it’s likely he will be wanting to remain in the Shire. Siteni Taukamo has garnered interest from Super League clubs, while Jack Williams has previously revealed his desire to remain at the Sharks before he signed to join the Eels. Now for the November 1 players, with some massive names set to hit the open market. Braydon Trindall informed foxsports.com.au he will become a free agent, and his salary is expected to more than double, currently earning around $300,000 per-season. That contract is well under his worth, having masterminded the Sharks’ first finals victory under Craig Fitzgibbon this year. Briton Nikora is an obvious retention target and there’s not a better hole runner in the competition. Sharks powerbrokers will be doing everything they can to retain him, alongside Cameron McInnes who is Cronulla’s captain and engine room in the middle of the park. Now here’s where it could get tricky for the Sharks, with Daniel Atkinson, Ronaldo Mulitalo, Sam Stonestreet, Will Kennedy and Teig Wilton all set to hit the open market. Atkinson shaped as a crucial squad player this season and was a perfect replacement when called upon in the halves and outside backs. But the Sharks almost certainly won’t be able to match offers tabled by rivals, meaning he could be on the move. Mulitalo and Stonestreet are both gun outside backs and will be hopeful of remaining at the club, while Wilton’s a starting back rower and the Sharks won’t want to be losing both of their edge forwards for their 2026 campaign. Kennedy, meanwhile, is sitting in a precarious position with two young guns chomping at the back of his heels. Kade Dykes has been injured in 2024, with Liam Ison showing he’s more than capable of being a first grade fullback. Therefore, Cronulla powerbrokers may have to decide who they put their faith in, and while Kennedy is the obvious option, it remains to be seen if he will be handed a contract extension after signing a two-year deal in 2023.
2025 gains: Addin Fonua-Blake (Warriors)
2025 losses: Royce Hunt
TITANS
Off-contract 2024: Isaac Liu, Jacob Alick-Wiencke, Joe Stimson, Klese Haas, Thomas Weaver
Off-contract 2025: Harley Smith-Shields, Iszac Fa’asuamaleaui, Jojo Fifita, Josiah Pahulu, Keenan Palasia, Ken Maumalo, Kieran Foran, Ryan Foran, Tanah Boyd, Tony Francis
As it stands, the Titans have allowed two of their rising forwards in Jacob Alick and Klese Haas to be on the open market for 11 months, and considering they are yet to sign elsewhere, both players could realistically be without a contract in 2025. However, it’s likely they will be retained by Gold Coast bosses, considering youth and talent is on their side. Isaac Liu, meanwhile, is expected to sign with a Super League club in 2025. However, the big names on this list are Kieran Foran, Jojo Fifita Tanah Boyd and Keenan Palasia. Foran’s 2025 season could be his last, signing a one-year extension in July this year, however the veteran has indicated he’s keen to continue his career as long as his body will allow. As for Boyd, he’s been given permission to negotiate with rivals should he be able to secure a deal with a rival club. Palasia, meanwhile, landed on the Gold Coast after a breakout season with the Broncos in 2023, but failed to cement a spot in the starting line-up, playing 15 times and being in and out of reserve grade. Regardless, he’s a talented forward and should live up to his billing next year, but will likely hit the open market. Now for Fifita, who has emerged as one of the Titans’ stars in the outside backs. He’s almost a certainty to be a retention target for the Titans and was one of Hasler’s regular starters in 2024. However, it remains to be seen whether he will want to test his value on the open market come November 1.
2025 gains: Carter Gordon (Australian Rugby) – (top 30), Sam Stephenson (Development Contract), Zane Harrison (Development Contract)
2025 losses: Erin Clark (Warriors), Seth Nikotemo (Trinity Wakefield)
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SEA EAGLES
Off-contract 2024: Corey Waddell, Matthew Lodge, Raymond Vaega
Off-contract 2025: Aaron Schoupp, Ben Condon, Clayton Faulalo, Daly Cherry-Evans, Ethan Bullemor, Gordon Chan Kum Tong, Jake Arthur, Josh Aloiai, Toafofoa Sipley
Let’s begin with Matt Lodge, who is reportedly set to depart the Sea Eagles. He’s said himself that he’s seeking a longer term NRL contract, with the Sea Eagles unable to offer a deal longer than two years, or at a value that could be agreed upon. However, a move to the Super League looms likely for the front row enforcer, who said to AAP his contract situation was “up in the air”. Interestingly, Daly Cherry-Evans is set to become a free agent come November 1 if the Sea Eagles don’t lock him up for a further season. At 35-years of age, the Maroons gun is showing no signs of slowing down and has even hinted he could give up playing representative football if it means prolonging his NRL career. Once again, elite playmakers are hard to come by and Manly bosses will be doing everything they can to retain his services should he continue his NRL career past the 2025 season. Elsewhere, Josh Aloiai, Toafofoa Sipley, Ben Condon and Ethan Bullemor are all free to negotiate with rivals come November 1. With Jazz Tevaga reportedly set to arrive at the club, one of these forwards could be squeezed out after the 2025 campaign. Elsewhere, Clayton Faulalo will likely be a retention target, having shown just how talented he can be in the limited games he featured in 2024.
2025 gains: Joey Walsh (rugby union)
2025 losses: Karl Lawton (Cowboys), Jamie Humphreys (Rabbitohs)
STORM
Off-contract 2024: Ativalu Lisati, Chris Lewis, Dean Ieremia, Marion Seve, Tepai Moeroa, Young Tonumaipea
Off-contract 2025: Bronson Garlick, Christian Welch (Mutual Option for 2026), Grant Anderson, Harry Grant (Player Option for 2026), Jonah Pezet, Josh King, Ryan Papenhuyzen, Trent Loiero, Tui Kamikamica, Tyran Wishart (Club Option for 2026)
There’s a host of players off-contract in 2024, with Ativalu Lisati the most likely to be retained after he was recruited mid-season by the Panthers. As for the November 1 players, Harry Grant and Ryan Papenhuyzen are the biggest names. It comes as a bit of a surprise Grant could be a free agent come the end of the 2024 season, but with a player option in his favour for 2026, he could realistically sit down with rivals. However, he’s the Storm’s skipper and will be the No.1 retention target, having already indicated he wants to take up his option and potential extend beyond 2026. As for Papenhuyzen, his management is said to have sat down with Melbourne powerbrokers to work out a new deal for the gun fullback. All signs point to him extending his stay at the ‘purple machine’ and it’s unlikely he will hit the open market come November 1. Tyran Wishart is another player who could hit the open market, however it’s almost certain the Storm will take up an option in their favour for the 2026 season after he had a breakout year. NRL rivals would have been desperate to make bids for the versatile star, but it’s unlikely Melbourne will allow him to even get to the point where eh can sit down with rivals, with the Dragons floated as a potential destination with his father being a club legend. Jonah Pezet, having been sidelined for the 2024 season due to an ACL injury, has been rumoured to have had conversations regarding a move to the Knights. Meanwhile, Josh King, Trent Loiero and Tui Kamikamica will all be hopeful of nutting out a new deal to remain with one of the strongest clubs in the competition, and will be joined by front row recruit Stefano Utoikamanu in the off-season.
2025 gains: Stefano Utoikamanu (Tigers)
KNIGHTS
Off-contract 2024: Brodie Jones, David Armstrong, Enari Tuala, Krystian Mapapalangi, Mathew Croker, Myles Martin, Tyson Frizell (Player Option for 2025, Mutual Option for 2026)
Off-contract 2025: Adam Elliott, Dylan Lucas, Jack Hetherington, Jackson Hastings, Jayden Brailey, Kai Pearce-Paul, Leo Thompson, Paul Bryan, Riley Jones, Thomas Jenkins, Will Pryce
It’s no secret new recruitment manager Peter O’Sullivan is keen to shake things up in the Hunter. Several players have been tapped on the shoulder, with the most notable name being former Blues prop Daniel Saifiti, who has since linked up with the Dolphins on a three-year deal. With the Knights adding promising youngster Matt Arthur to their dummy-half ranks, it appears likely veteran Jayden Brailey will be allowed to explore his options and potentially leave Newcastle with 12 months left on his current deal. Dylan Lucas and Kai Pearce-Paul are two players the Knights absolutely must extend. Both will cop plenty of attention from rival clubs on the back of strong seasons in 2024. Lucas’ versatility was on full display, with the 24-year-old impressing in both the centres and at back row. UK recruit Pearce-Paul proved to be a handful for opposition defences with his hard running and big frame. You’d think he has plenty of improvement to come and should be a top retention target for the Hunter club. Fellow Englishmen Will Pryce showed glimpses of talent in limited action and should also be a priority for the Knights. Halfback Jackson Hastings ended the season in reserve grade and many expected him to be on the way out, but he has quashed those rumours to say he plans to play out his deal. “I have a contract for next year, I haven’t spoken to anyone in Super League,” Hastings said. He went further, adding that he is “really enjoying his life in Australia and hopefully stay there for as long as possible”.
2025 gains: Francis Manuleleua, Taj Annan (Queensland Reds)
2025 losses: Myles Martin (Raiders), David Armstrong (Leigh), Daniel Saifiti (Dolphins)
Mal announces new look Australia squad | 08:22
COWBOYS
Off-contract 2024: Jamayne Taunoa-Brown, Jordan McLean, Kulikefu Finefeuiaki
Off-contract 2025: Braidon Burns, D’Jazirhae Pua’avase, Harrison Edwards (Club Option for 2026), Jake Clifford, Reece Robson, Robert Derby, Semi Valemei, Thomas Duffy, Tom Chester, Viliami Vailea, Zac Laybutt
Todd Payten’s side will lose a wealth of experience this off season as Kyle Feldt, Jake Granville, Chad Towsend, Kulikefu Finefeuiaki and Valentine Holmes all depart for new pastures. Veteran prop Jordan McLean is also off-contract but recently told Wide World of Sports he’d like to “stick around” in Townsville. “It feels like home up here,” he added. Come November 1 and the club could find themselves in a battle to retain several of the young stars they’d hope to build their future around. Blues Origin star Reece Robson is off contract at the end of next year and would have no shortage of interested parties, having cemented himself as NSW’s first choice hooker in 2024. Young centres Zac Laybutt (22) and Viliami Vailea (21) are both without deals beyond next season too. Both have shown plenty of NRL promise to worry North Queensland heading into free agency, although Holmes’ departure freed up significant cap space to allow the Cowboys to re-sign “some of our young lads”. Elsewhere, Jake Clifford recently signed a one-year extension until the end of 2025. His value could skyrocket next season if he performs as he did over the closing rounds of 2025, with playmaking stocks across the competition running thin. Elsewhere, 21-year-old Thomas Duffy’s current deal expires at the end of next year too, with the former QLD Under 19s No.7 highly rated in North Queensland. Braidon Burns, Tom Chester and Semi Valemei are all valuable squad players to Payten but could be offered contracts elsewhere if they aren’t re-signed before November 1.
2025 gains: Karl Lawton (Sea Eagles), Kai O’Donnell (Leigh Leopards – Super League)
2025 losses: Kulikefu Finefeuiaki (Dolphins), Chad Townsend (Roosters), Jake Granville (TBC), Valentine Holmes (Dragons), Kyle Feldt (retired)
EELS
Off-contract 2024: Daejarn Asi, Haze Dunster (Mutual option for 2025), Ky Rodwell, Makahesi Makatoa, Morgan Harper, Ofahiki Ogden, Tevita Taumoepenu, Zac Cini
Off-contract 2025: Brendan Hands, Bryce Cartwright, Clint Gutherson, Joey Lussick, Joe Ofahengaue, Kelma Tuilagi, Maika Sivo (Mutual option for 2026), Matt Doorey, Ryan Matterson (Player option for 2026), Sean Russell, Shane Lane (Mutual option for 2026), Toni Mataele, Will Penisni (Player option for 2026), Wiremu Greig
There’s a lot for Jason Ryles to decide upon here. The Eels have already announced Zac Cini Daejarn Asi, Ofahiki Ogden, Makahesi Makatoa and Morgan Harper have all left the club. But there’s a host of big-name stars coming off-contract come November 1, with multiple options in contract muddying the waters. Clint Gutherson is arguably the biggest name on this list and Parramatta powerbrokers reportedly want to retain their captain’s services beyond the 2025 season. However, should they let him hit the open market, Gutherson won’t be short of suitors considering his versatility, with the Dragons previously linked with a play for his services. Elsewhere, Bryce Cartwright and Joe Ofahengaue are crucial forwards for the Eels, but again both could become free agents in less than a month’s time. Shaun Lane has a mutual option for 2026, and it’s unlikely he won’t take that up while Ryan Matterson, who has a player option for the 2026 season, has been informed he’s free to depart the club should he find a contract elsewhere, sitting in a similar situation to that of Reagan Campbell-Gillard who was able to score himself a three-year deal with the Titans. Matterson struggled with injuries in 2024, and it remains to be seen if a rival club would take a punt on his services considering he only took the field 16 times and has a history of concussions keeping him on the sidelines. Elsewhere, Maika Sivo is also on the outer and the club are reportedly willing to allow him to depart, with the Super League a potential destination for the prolific try-scoring winger. However, there’s one the Eels will be desperate not to lose in Will Penisini. There’s a chance he could hit the open market come November 1 if he doesn’t take up his player option, and the rising star will not be short of suitors. The 22-year-old has shown he’s a more than dangerous outside back and Ryles will doing everything he can to retain his services, forging a strong centre partnership with incoming star Zac Lomax.
2025 losses: Ethan Sanders (Raiders), Blaize Talagi (Panthers), Reagan Campbell-Gillard (Gold Coast Titans)
2025 gains: Zac Lomax (Dragons), Isaiah Iongi (Panthers), Dean Hawkins (Rabbitohs)
PANTHERS
Off-contract 2024: Matt Eisenhuth, Paul Alamoti, Tyrone Peachey
Off-contract 2025: Asu Kepaoa, Brad Schneider, Harrison Hassett, Mavrik Geyer, Preston Riki, Soni Luke
The Panthers have well and truly got their salary cap in order for at least another season, with only a handful of players set to hit the open market. Fresh off winning a fourth-straight premiership, Sunia Turuva, Jarome Luai, James Fisher-Harris and Isaiah Iongi will all depart for rival clubs. As for players without a contract in 2025, both Matt Eisenhuth and Paul Alamoti have reportedly been offered extensions, while Tyrone Peachey has hung up the boots. That leaves six players to hit the open market come November 1, and Brad Schneider could be the most important retention target out of the group with Luai departing and the club’s halves stocks becoming thinner. While Schneider hasn’t performed exactly how he would have liked in his first season at the foot of the mountain, halves are a hot commodity in rugby league and Ivan Cleary has faith in the man he included on the bench for the 2024 grand final. Harrison Hassett is a rising star, while Mavrik Geyer and Soni Luke have both shown promise in their limited first grade appearances, with Asu Kepaoa being a mid-season signing from the Tigers earlier this year.
2025 gains: Isaiah Papali’i (Wests Tigers), Blaize Talagi (Eels)
2025 losses: Sunia Turuva (Wests Tigers), Jarome Luai (Wests Tigers), James Fisher-Harris (Warriors), Isaiah Iongi (Eels)
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RABBITOHS
Off-contract 2024: Izaac Tu’itupou Thompson, Leon Te Hau, Michael Chee Kam, Taane Milne
Off-contract 2025: Alex Johnston, Ben Lovett, Cody Walker, Jacob Host, Lachlan Ilias, Shaquai Mitchell, Siliva Havili, Tallis Duncan, Tyrone Munro, Josh Schuster
The Rabbitohs have confirmed Michael Chee Kam, Richie Kennar, Izaac Tu’itupou Thompson and Leon Te Hau will depart the club, meaning Taane Milne, who is without a deal for the 2025 season, will likely be extended. As for players who will become free agents on November 1, the biggest names on this list is undoubtedly Cody Walker. The gun playmaker turns 25 in January, but he’s showing no signs of slowing down and featured at halfback for a large portion of the 2024 season. Bennett made it clear he is willing to extend Walker’s contract for further seasons, speaking to News Corp. “Cody plays to a very high standard so I don’t see any reason why he can’t continue,” Bennett said. “Cody hasn’t had a lot of injuries in his career, so his body is in pretty good shape. He is a great professional so I don’t think next year will be his last year.” Walker has been a crucial figure for the Rabbitohs since breaking into the side in 2016 and elite playmakers are hard to come by, especially considering the halves headache South Sydney endured this season gone. Outside of Walker, Alex Johnston and Tyrone Munro both could field offers from rivals, and despite Johnston’s injury, both are likely apart of the club’s best backline. It remains to be seen whether Johnston will receive an extension beyond his current deal, while Munro has shown flashes of brilliance including an impressive try only days after his mother passed away this season. Tallis Duncan’s another player Wayne Bennett will likely want to retain, with the 22-year-old who has emerged as a crucial forward off the bench. Josh Schuster, meanwhile, has been handed an NRL lifeline and if he returns to first grade with a bang next year, rival clubs will be able to attempt to poach him.
2025 gains: Jamie Humphreys (Sea Eagles), Euan Aitken (Dolphins), Lewis Dodd (St Helens)
2025 losses: Thomas Burgess (Huddersfield), Damien Cook (Dragons), Dean Hawkins (Eels)
DRAGONS
Off-contract 2024: Alec Tuitavake, Ben Murdoch-Masila, Cody Ramsey, Dan Russell (Mutual option for 2025), Fa’amanu Brown (Club option for 2025), Jesse Marschke, Paul Turner, Tom Eisenhuth
Off-contract 2025: Ben Hunt, Christian Tuipulotu, Corey Allan, Jack de Belin, Jacob Liddle (Mutual option for 2026), Kyle Flanagan, Michael Molo, Raymond Faitala-Mariner, Ryan Couchman, Sione Finau, Toby Couchman, Viliami Fifita
Tom Eisenhuth headlines the list of players without a deal next year, and The Daily Telegraph has previously reported the veteran forward has signed a one-year extension to remain at the Red V in 2025. It’s a hugely-deserved reward for a player who was a mainstay in Shane Flanagan’s forward pack. As for the players who could hit the open market come November 1, Ben Hunt is clearly the biggest name. After being informed his form wasn’t up to scratch by his coach post-season, Hunt was reportedly left with a bad taste in his mouth. The 34-year-old was expected to sign a one-year extension earlier this season, however that situation took a turn after that meeting. Dragons powerbrokers reportedly aren’t willing to re-sign him beyond his current contract, meaning he could field offers in the coming weeks. The Titans and Broncos have previously been interested in his services, but as it stands, it doesn’t look likely that Hunt will be a Dragons player beyond the 2025 season. Jack de Belin, meanwhile, signed a new contract for the 2025 season in July, but was reportedly seeking a longer term deal. The Couchman brothers will not be short of suitors with the rising front row duo likely to be tabled offers by rival clubs considering a general shortage of elite front rowers. That pair aren’t close to that position right now, but certainly have the potential to develop into crucial players for their respective teams. Christian Tuipulotu also emerged as a starting winger for the Dragons, and with the departure of Zac Lomax and the arrival of Valentine Holmes, he looks likely to retain his spot. The Dragons could move to lock him in long-term, considering Max Feagai also was deemed surplus to requirements and was allowed to join the Dolphins. Michael Molo is also a forward on the rise and could be offered a new deal. Interestingly Jacob Liddle could also be off-contract come November 1, but it’s highly unlikely the Dragons don’t take up an option in their favour for 2026.
2025 gains: Damien Cook (Rabbitohs), Valentine Holmes (Cowboys)
2025 losses: Zac Lomax (Eels), Savelio Tamale (Raiders), Jack Bird (Wests Tigers), Max Feagai (Dolphins)
ROOSTERS
Off-contract 2024: Blake Steep, Brandon Smith (Player option for 2025), Michael Jennings, Tyler Moriarty, Zach Dockar-Clay
Off-contract 2025: Chad Townsend, Egan Butcher, James Tedesco, Robert Toia, Sam Walker
The Roosters have lost a host of big-name players following the end of the 2024 season, while Michael Jennings will also depart the Tricolours club, however it remains to be seen if he will be handed an NRL contract elsewhere. The departure of stars like Joseph Suaalii and Joey Manu has cleared up a huge portion of the club’s salary cap, and a good portion of that is set to be used to hand Sam Walker a bumper extension. Walker’s set to sign a two-year extension, meaning he will remain at the Roosters until the end of 2026. Walker missed this year’s finals series after suffering a knee injury in the Round 26 loss to Canberra and isn’t expected to return until midway through next season. “It will be announced either this week and next week before other clubs can get to him, not that they haven’t anyway and expressed some sort of interest,” The Daily Telegraph’s Phil Rothfield said on NRL360 on Monday night. “It’s a good contract, it’s two years, it’s a million dollars a year.” That stops Walker from hitting the open market come November 1, while James Tedesco could be the man to attract interest from rivals if isn’t handed an extension. The SMH reported in August that the gun fullback believes he can play for several years to come and he’s hopeful he will be handed a new contract to remain at the Tricolours. However, Tedesco will be 32 by the end of his current deal and Roosters bosses may only be willing to offer him a one-year extension, likely reassessing his position next season to see if he’s still performing at a high level. Elsewhere, Robert Toia is highly rated in rugby league circles but knee injuries have kept him off the field in recent years. However he’s an NRL star in the making and will almost certainly be retained.
2025 losses: Joseph Suaali’i (rugby union), Jared Waerea-Hargreaves (Hull KR), Joseph Manu (rugby union), Luke Keary (Catalans), Sitili Tupouniua (Bulldogs).
2025 gains: Mark Nawaqanitawase (rugby union), Chad Townsend (Cowboys)
Inside the sheds of the BEST team ever! | 11:55
WARRIORS
Off-contract 2025: Tom Ale, Tohu Harris, Te Maire Martin, Taine Tuaupiki, Marcelo Montoya, Jackson Ford, Edward Kosi, Dylan Walker, Demetric Sikafula (Club Option for 2026), Dallin Watene-Zelezniak, Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad, Chanel Harris-Tavita (Mutual Option for 2026), Bunty Afoa, Ali Leiataua, Adam Pompey
There can be no mistaking how big a loss all three of the Warriors departing stars will be. Addin Fonua-Blake leaves a hole in their middle forwards, Jazz Tevaga provides a brilliant spark off the bench despite limited game time in 2024, while Shaun Johnson has been the club’s leader in recent years. However, the greater concern for coach Andrew Webster should be the amount of stars hitting free agency on November 1. Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad, Tohu Harris, Jackson Ford, Te Maire Martin, Dallin Watene-Zelezniak, Dylan Walker and Chanel Harris-Tavita are all highly valued members of the Warriors’ squad. Webster will undoubtedly want to keep them, and the club’s trio of 2024 departures should provide them with the necessary cap space to re-sign some. Whether that cap is enough to re-sign all is another story entirely, one which time only has the answers for. Perhaps the most interesting of the Warriors’ 2025 off contract class is Taine Tuaupiki. The 25-year-old fullback showed his class in six games this season but finds himself behind Nicoll-Klokstad and Roger Tuivasa-Sheck in the club’s No.1 pecking order. Tuaupiki could attract significant interest from NRL clubs hunting a quality fullback this upcoming free agency. Alternatively, should Webster opt to shift Nicoll-Klokstad to centre next season for Tuaupiki, a domino effect could be created that could ultimately end either of Ed Kosi, Marcelo Montoya, Adam Pompey or Ali Leaitaua’s time at the club when their contracts expire next year. All four have shown enough in recent seasons to attract NRL interest from November 1 should the Warriors be unable to afford them beyond their current contracts. Leaitaua, however, is a young gun on the rise, while Ford and Martin will both be key players moving forward in Auckland and will almost definitely be retention targets.
2025 gains: Erin Clark (Titans), James Fisher-Harris (Panthers), Jett Cleary (Panthers), Sam Healey (Sharks)
2025 losses: Addin Fonua-Blake (Sharks), Jazz Tevaga (Manly), Shaun Johnson (retired)
TIGERS
Off-contract 2024: Aidan Sezer (Mutual Option for 2025), Brandon Tumeth (Player Option for 2025), Sione Fainu
Off-contract 2025: Adam Doueihi, Alex Seyfarth, Brent Naden, Charlie Staines, David Klemmer (Mutual Option for 2026), Fonua Pole, Josh Feledy, Justin Matamua
Sione Fainu is the only Tigers off contract at the end of 2024 without a new club or option to extend their deal. The 23-year-old was part of a promising core of young Tigers who showed flashes of their future brilliance this season, a group including his brothers Latu and Samuela. Expect him to be handed a new deal by the club. As for the group of players entering free agency on November 1, the club has much to think about as it manages its way through an already impressive roster rebuild. Adam Doueihi has been hindered by injuries this season, but still signed a one-year minimum wage deal mid-year to keep him at Concord next year. A full year of fitness could see the Lebanese international prove his importance to Benji Marshall’s side or equally be the subject of a poaching raid by rival clubs. Charlie Staines and Brent Naden both arrived with plenty of promise but the emergence of young outside backs, like Luke Laulilii, and new signings Sunia Turuva and Jeral Skelton, could see them deemed surplus to requirements moving forward. Alex Seyfarth, Justin Matamua and Fonua Pole are all local juniors the club will likely look to retain, with the latter given more minutes as a starting prop in the closing rounds of 2024, and impressing in this opportunity. Matamua too is highly rated, having featured in NSW’s Under 19s side in 2022 but has yet to break into Marshall’s 17. Given his junior pedigree there is a world where the 21-year-old attracts plenty of interest come November 1.
2025 gains: Jarome Luai (Panthers), Sunia Turuva (Panthers), Jeral Skelton (Bulldogs), Royce Hunt (Sharks), Jack Bird (Dragons)
2025 losses: Stefano Utoikamanu (Storm), Isaiah Papali’i (Panthers), Junior Tupou (Dolphins)
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