Raiders Look to Retain Key Players Despite No Major Departures
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 the Raiders don’t have any blockbuster names they’re desperate to retain, there are several key first-team players they’ll be eager to keep. Xavier Savage has become an essential part of the Raiders’ backline, and given his impressive attacking skills and potential for growth at just 22, he’s likely to attract interest from other clubs.
Kaeo Weekes to Anchor the Raiders’ Fullback Role
Kaeo Weekes was due to become available as a free agent on November 1, but the Raiders extended his contract through to the end of 2027. He’s expected to take over as Canberra’s fullback in 2025, with Jordan Rapana heading to the Super League.
Tom Starling Secures Long-Term Hooker Role
Tom Starling had a strong finish to the season, performing well at hooker and seemingly securing his role as the Raiders’ long-term No.9. With Zac Woolford moving to the Super League and Danny Levi given permission to explore options with other clubs, Starling’s position appears locked in. However, he is reportedly free to leave if he finds a suitable offer elsewhere.
Veterans Depart for the Super League, Papalii’s Future Uncertain
Veterans Rapana and Elliott Whitehead will both be departing for the Super League, with Rapana joining Hull FC and Whitehead signing with Catalans Dragons. As for Josh Papalii, it’s uncertain if he will continue playing in 2025, though he has a mutual option to do so. After marking his 300th NRL game in 2024, Papalii showed he still has plenty left in the tank, and Ricky Stuart will no doubt hope he returns for another season.
James Schiller Joins the Knights After Standout Season
James Schiller made a strong impression early in the season, sparking interest from rival clubs, and he has since signed 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)
Dolphins Face Major Roster Rebuild After Second Season
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
Departures Shake Up the Dolphins’ Core
The Dolphins are set for a roster shake-up after just two seasons in the NRL. Tevita Pangai Junior, who joined mid-season, will be leaving, as will Euan Aitken, who has signed with the Rabbitohs. Jarrod Wallace was granted a mid-season release to play overseas, and veteran prop Jesse Bromwich has retired. Valynce Te Whare is also searching for a new club, while Mason Teague and Rob Jennings face uncertain futures with mutual options available for the 2025 season.
New Signings Bring Fresh Talent to the Dolphins’ Line-up
Despite the changes, the Dolphins have strengthened their lineup with strategic signings. Daniel Saifiti, Junior Tupou, Kulikefu Finefeuiaki, and Max Feagai will all join Kristian Woolf’s squad. Saifiti and Finefeuiaki are expected to slot into the starting lineup, while Tupou and Feagai add valuable depth to the backline. However, the Dolphins could face more contract challenges come November 1.
Connelly Lemuelu and Sean O’Sullivan Become Retention Priorities
Back-rower Connelly Lemuelu has excelled on the edge and is likely to be a retention priority, with rival clubs expected to make offers. Sean O’Sullivan, who emerged as a starting halfback by season’s end, also presents significant value given the shortage of quality halves across the league, making him a key target for retention.
Kerr’s Future Uncertain; Kaufusi and Milford Eye Extensions
As for Harrison Graham and Josh Kerr, their contract statuses remain uncertain, although Kerr’s standout season could earn him a new deal. Veterans Felise Kaufusi, Kenny Bromwich, and Mark Nicholls may be nearing the end of their NRL careers, though Kaufusi could still draw interest if he becomes a free agent after November 1. Additionally, Anthony Milford, initially expected to depart, has reportedly 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)
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