Rising Storm star Jonah Pezet has revealed that his future in the National Rugby League (NRL) is uncertain, with his agent confirming that his immediate prospects are “up in the air.” The 22-year-old playmaker recently showcased his skills in the No.7 jersey against the Bulldogs, earning accolades for his performance. Despite his current contract running until the end of 2029, Pezet is now a free agent, attracting interest from rival teams.
Pezet’s situation has been complicated by a clause in his contract, negotiated by his agent Braith Anasta, which allows him to become a free agent if Jahrome Hughes re-signs with the Storm. Hughes secured a new deal until 2030 in July, activating Pezet’s free agency status. This development has sparked speculation about Pezet’s next move, particularly after the Rabbitohs reportedly declined a loan deal for the promising halfback.
Contract Clause and Free Agency
Speaking on NRL360, Pezet expressed his current focus on the finals series, while remaining open to potential loan deals. “As I said before, I am focused on the finals series for us. But I am sort of an open book at the moment to any sort of loan deals or whatever that might be,” he explained. Pezet referenced the club’s past experience with loaning players, such as Harry Grant in 2020, emphasizing his readiness to explore options.
Despite his impressive performance in the finals, Pezet faces the possibility of being benched or dropped for the preliminary finals, with Jahrome Hughes likely to return after recovering from a fractured forearm. Pezet acknowledged the uncertainty, stating, “I’m not quite sure yet, Hughes is tracking pretty well for the prelim, so that will be his jersey when he comes back.”
Expert Opinions and Future Prospects
NRL360 host Braith Anasta, who also represents Pezet, admitted that while Pezet’s preference is to stay with the Storm, this would mean playing a secondary role to Hughes. “As it stands right now, technically he is off contract. I had the clause in there with Jahrome… we have been looking for the one-year loan,” Anasta said. The situation remains fluid, with Pezet technically a free agent and open to offers.
Fox League’s Paul Crawley weighed in on the discussion, highlighting the difference between a short-term loan and a long-term commitment. “It’s a big difference between being on loan for one year and taking Jonah for five to ten years,” Crawley noted.
Implications and Future Outlook
The uncertainty surrounding Pezet’s future underscores the complexities of player contracts and free agency in the NRL. As teams prepare for the upcoming season, Pezet’s availability as a free agent presents both opportunities and challenges for clubs looking to bolster their rosters. The situation also highlights the strategic considerations players and agents must navigate in managing careers within the league.
Looking ahead, the next few weeks will be crucial for Pezet as he evaluates potential opportunities and navigates the intricacies of NRL contracts. Whether he stays with the Storm or explores new horizons, Pezet’s decision will likely have a significant impact on his career trajectory and the dynamics of the teams involved.
As the NRL finals continue, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how Pezet’s situation unfolds, offering a glimpse into the ever-evolving landscape of professional rugby league.
