- The 2024 NRL Season Ends, but Transfer Market Action Begins
- DOGS: Key Contract Decisions Await Bulldogs’ Management
- Belmore’s Big Call on Addo-Carr’s Future
- Toby Sexton’s Uncertain Future as Club’s Long-Term No.7
- Retention Priorities: Xerri, Mann, and Wilson High on Bulldogs’ List
- BRONCOS : Key Signings and Salary Cap Challenges Loom
- Top Broncos Faces Uncertain Future with 2026 Approaching
- Corey Oates and Taupau’s Futures Hang in the Balance
- Selwyn Cobbo and Kotoni Staggs Up in the Air
- Maguire’s Clean Slate Approach for Broncos’ Roster
The 2024 NRL Season Ends, but Transfer Market Action Begins
The 2024 NRL season has wrapped up, but the transfer market is just starting to heat up as the November 1 deadline approaches.
From that date, players with contracts ending after the 2025 season are free to negotiate with rival clubs for 2026 and beyond.
NRL decision-makers across the league are working around the clock to secure key players, though re-signing everyone isn’t possible.
DOGS: Key Contract Decisions Await Bulldogs’ Management
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
Belmore’s Big Call on Addo-Carr’s Future
Belmore faces critical decisions, particularly regarding the contract of star winger Josh Addo-Carr. After testing positive for cocaine in a roadside drug test, Addo-Carr met with the NRL Integrity Unit, leaving his future with the Bulldogs uncertain and raising the possibility of contract termination. Bulldogs football boss Phil Gould emphasized that Addo-Carr must “somehow, somewhere” account for his actions after reportedly altering his story.
Toby Sexton’s Uncertain Future as Club’s Long-Term No.7
Meanwhile, Toby Sexton, who started the year as the club’s backup halfback, has confirmed he hasn’t yet opened extension talks. “No talks at the moment,” Sexton said, leaving contract discussions to his manager as he stays focused on playing. However, the Bulldogs are likely to secure him before he enters the open market, especially as he’s demonstrated potential to be the club’s long-term No.7.
Retention Priorities: Xerri, Mann, and Wilson High on Bulldogs’ List
Bronson Xerri, following an impressive return to first grade, is also expected to be a priority for retention. Versatile forward Kurt Mann has proven indispensable in the Bulldogs’ pack and may see his contract extended before free agency. In a smart move, the club locked down Josh Curran until the end of 2026, rewarding his standout first season in Bulldogs colors.
There’s also growing interest in retaining Blake Wilson, who has been linked to the Eels. With Addo-Carr’s situation unresolved and Jeral Skelton departing, Wilson has become a likely retention target as the Bulldogs work to solidify their roster.
2025 gains: Tom Amone (Leigh Leopards), Sitili Tupouniua (Sydney Roosters)
2025 losses: Jeral Skelton (Wests Tigers)
BRONCOS : Key Signings and Salary Cap Challenges Loom
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
Top Broncos Faces Uncertain Future with 2026 Approaching
A significant portion of the Broncos squad faces pivotal contract decisions, headlined by Reece Walsh, Selwyn Cobbo, and Adam Reynolds, all of whom are free to negotiate with rival clubs for 2026 from November 1. Reynolds, now 34, recently extended his contract through 2025, defying retirement expectations, though he’s confirmed next season will be his last.
Corey Oates and Taupau’s Futures Hang in the Balance
Corey Oates won’t receive a new contract, and while Martin Taupau was expected to part ways with the Broncos, incoming coach Michael Maguire may have different plans. Meanwhile, Brisbane management has been actively working to retain star fullback Reece Walsh, reportedly close to securing a new four-year, $4.4 million deal for the 22-year-old, cementing his future at Red Hill after protracted negotiations.
Selwyn Cobbo and Kotoni Staggs Up in the Air
Elsewhere, Selwyn Cobbo’s contract remains unresolved, leaving him open to rival offers. Although Cobbo has expressed a desire to stay, the Broncos may struggle to meet his expected asking price, with league veteran Corey Parker suggesting he could attract offers up to $1 million per season. Kotoni Staggs, coming off a strong season finish, is also without a deal for 2026, likely positioning him as a priority retention target for Brisbane.
Maguire’s Clean Slate Approach for Broncos’ Roster
Maguire has indicated he’s approaching the squad with a “clean slate,” with players like Kobe Hetherington, linked to the Tigers, and backup hooker Cory Paix set to prove their value in preseason. However, with Pat Carrigan, Payne Haas, and Walsh already signed to long-term deals, Brisbane’s salary cap is under pressure. This financial squeeze could see emerging talent like Xavier Willison depart, as the promising prop is expected to draw significant interest post-November.
2025 losses: Tristan Sailor (St Helens)
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