As the November 1 recruitment frenzy approaches, the National Rugby League (NRL) is bracing for a seismic shift. A staggering 160 players, including several high-profile stars, are set to become free agents. This year’s transfer window is particularly significant with the entry of the Perth Bears, an expansion club armed with a $12 million salary cap, poised to shake up the market.
The introduction of the Perth Bears adds a new layer of competition for player signatures, as clubs scramble to secure their top talent while eyeing potential recruits. The Bears’ financial muscle could lure players seeking lucrative deals, intensifying the battle for key signings across the league.
Broncos: Retaining Haas Amidst Market Pressure
The Brisbane Broncos face a critical period as they aim to retain Payne Haas, the highest-paid prop in the game. Haas recently re-signed with the Broncos in 2023, but with the Bears potentially offering a substantial deal to make him their marquee player, the Broncos are keen to secure his services long-term. Haas’ agent, Ahmad Merhi, has publicly stated Haas’ intention to remain in Brisbane.
Meanwhile, Jesse Arthars, who has seen limited playtime, may explore opportunities with other clubs. The Broncos are unlikely to pursue big-name recruits due to salary cap constraints, focusing instead on internal talent development.
Bulldogs: Prioritizing Key Retentions
For the Canterbury Bulldogs, retaining Viliame Kikau and Connor Tracey is paramount. Tracey has excelled at fullback, and his performance has attracted interest from rival clubs. The Bulldogs are also keen to solidify their outside back depth with Marcelo Montoya and Enari Tuala.
Despite losing Blake Wilson, the Bulldogs have bolstered their squad with the arrival of Queensland under-19s star David Bryenton. The club’s focus remains on maintaining a strong core while integrating promising young talent.
Cowboys: Securing Rising Stars
The North Queensland Cowboys are determined to retain Jaxon Purdue, a rising star whose performance has caught the eye of several clubs. Purdue’s preference to play in the halves aligns with the Cowboys’ future plans, making his retention a priority.
Murray Taulagi and Sam McIntyre are also key figures the Cowboys aim to keep. With Reece Robson’s replacement secured in Reed Mahoney, the Cowboys are exploring options to strengthen their outside backs.
Dolphins: Building a Competitive Roster
The Dolphins are focused on securing Herbie Farnworth on a long-term deal, with plans to make him a central figure in their lineup. Selwyn Cobbo’s arrival in 2026 adds depth, though his future beyond that remains uncertain.
Coach Kristian Woolf has denied reports of a swap deal involving Kodi Nikorima, emphasizing the club’s commitment to retaining key players like Jamayne Isaako and Jake Averillo.
Dragons: Targeting Elite Talent
The St. George Illawarra Dragons are on the hunt for a halfback and an elite front-rower to elevate their squad into top-eight contention. Tyrell Sloan has been granted permission to negotiate with other clubs, while Lachlan Ilias may explore opportunities elsewhere due to limited playtime.
With Tino Fa’asuamaleaui hitting the open market, the Dragons are reportedly preparing a record-breaking offer to secure his services, signaling their intent to make significant roster improvements.
Eels: Navigating Key Departures
The Parramatta Eels face potential departures, including star winger Zac Lomax, who is linked to a move to the R360 rugby competition. The club is reshaping its squad, with Brendan Hands and Ryan Matterson already on loan for the 2025 season.
Josh Addo-Carr and Dylan Walker are priority re-signings, while the Eels explore options to bolster their forward pack and potentially recruit Storm halfback Jonah Pezet.
Knights: Rebuilding for Future Success
Following a disappointing season, the Newcastle Knights are in a rebuilding phase under new coach Justin Holbrook. With Dane Gagai and Tyson Frizell nearing retirement, the club is assessing its roster for potential changes.
The Knights are actively seeking a halfback, with Dylan Brown’s arrival on a significant deal. Sandon Smith is a potential target to strengthen their squad depth.
Panthers: Retention Over Recruitment
The Penrith Panthers are focused on retaining key players like Liam Henry and Lindsay Smith, crucial to their forward pack. With recent player departures, the club aims to maintain stability and build on its current roster strength.
Reports suggest Smith is negotiating a long-term contract, underscoring the Panthers’ commitment to keeping their core intact.
Rabbitohs: Balancing Star Power and Future Prospects
The South Sydney Rabbitohs are eyeing David Fifita as a potential recruit, which could impact their current roster. Keaon Koloamatangi’s re-signing is a priority, given his standout performances this season.
With Cody Walker nearing retirement, the Rabbitohs are exploring options for their halves and fullback positions, potentially targeting Jayden Campbell and Jonah Pezet for key roles.
Raiders: Strengthening Core and Depth
The Canberra Raiders are prioritizing the re-signing of Ata Mariota, a key figure in their forward pack. With Josh Papalii nearing the end of his career, Mariota is poised to step into a starting role.
The Raiders are also exploring options to enhance their halves depth, with Jonah Pezet and Jake Clifford among potential targets.
Roosters: Securing Key Players Amidst Change
The Sydney Roosters are focused on re-signing James Tedesco following his stellar season. Angus Crichton’s future remains uncertain, with interest from rugby union potentially influencing his decision.
With several players off contract, the Roosters are evaluating their options to maintain a competitive squad while addressing potential departures.
Sea Eagles: Navigating Uncertain Futures
The Manly Sea Eagles face pivotal decisions regarding the Trbojevic brothers, with Tom’s contract negotiations at a standstill. Jake’s future is also uncertain due to concussion concerns.
The club is exploring options to strengthen their squad, potentially targeting elite players to fill key positions in the coming seasons.
Sharks: Addressing Key Retentions and Future Prospects
The Cronulla Sharks are focused on retaining key players like Blayke Brailey and Jesse Ramien. With several stars off contract, the club is assessing its roster to ensure long-term success.
The Sharks are exploring potential recruits to bolster their squad, with an emphasis on finding a halfback to complement Nicho Hynes.
Storm: Strategic Moves for Continued Success
The Melbourne Storm are navigating potential departures, including Ryan Papenhuyzen’s link to rugby union. Harry Grant’s future is also in focus, with the Perth Bears expressing interest.
The Storm are exploring options to strengthen their squad, potentially targeting Tino Fa’asuamaleaui to enhance their forward pack.
Titans: Overcoming Challenges with Strategic Signings
The Gold Coast Titans are undergoing a roster overhaul under new coach Josh Hannay. With Jayden Campbell and David Fifita potentially departing, the club is exploring options to rebuild its squad.
The Titans are targeting key recruits, including potential halfbacks, to guide their future success.
Tigers: Building a Competitive Future
The Wests Tigers are focused on re-signing Jahream Bula and Jarome Luai to build a strong foundation for the future. With Jack Bird set to leave, the club is assessing its options to strengthen its roster.
The Tigers are exploring potential recruits to enhance their forward pack and strike centers, aiming to compete at a higher level in the coming seasons.
Warriors: Navigating Key Retentions and Strategic Growth
The New Zealand Warriors are prioritizing the retention of Luke Metcalf and Marata Niukore, crucial to their long-term plans. With Roger Tuivasa-Sheck potentially departing, the club is exploring options to maintain depth in their outside backs.
The Warriors are focused on strategic growth, assessing potential recruits to enhance their squad’s competitiveness in the league.
