The Ledger · 02 · 2026-10-28

November 1: the team-by-team contract market

Who can talk to rivals from 1 November, who is locked in for 2027 and 2028, what each club needs, and who fits.

The Ledger, issue 2. Salaries on this site are unofficial Cap Dramas figures. Where a number comes from a news report, we name the outlet.

Sunday is the day the NRL contract market opens. From 1 November, any player whose deal ends after the 2027 season can talk to a rival club. The date has been circled for months. Now it is here, with the PNG Chiefs offering tax-free contracts and a long shopping list.

We went club by club. For each of the 17 existing clubs we list who is in play, who is signed for 2027 and 2028, what the roster looks like, what the club needs, and who fits. Then we say whether the price works against our numbers. We also collected what the journalists and the clubs themselves are saying, and we only quote words we could read at the source.

Seventeen clubs. Each column is what the club has committed for 2027 on the Cap Dramas Estimate. The line is the published $12.10M cap.

The light blocks are the deals that end after 2027. From Sunday, those 197 players can talk to any club.

Take them away and this is what each club keeps. The blocks on the floor are the market.

Now add the deals already signed for 2028 and raise the cap to our projected $15.40M. The Roosters have the least committed, $6.03M on our estimate.

THE MARKET · 197 DEALS · $75.95M IN CAP DRAMAS ESTIMATESRoosters have the least committed for 2028: $6.38M.SOURCE: CAP DRAMAS CAP TABLES · 2028 CAP PROJECTED
The figures behind the chart
Committed for 2027 and 2028, our cap tables. 2028 is projected.
Club2027Ends after 20272028
Roosters$11.02M11$6.38M
Souths$12.65M19$6.71M
Penrith$11.74M12$6.74M
Parramatta$11.49M16$6.76M
Brisbane$10.49M13$7.17M
Melbourne$11.52M12$7.19M
Cowboys$9.55M7$7.31M
Dragons$11.76M13$7.99M
Manly$11.91M12$8.18M
Titans$11.14M15$8.37M
Cronulla$10.62M10$8.73M
Wests Tigers$10.85M9$8.98M
Bulldogs$12.23M11$9.03M
Dolphins$12.52M11$9.16M
Newcastle$11.75M12$9.53M
Warriors$11.06M8$9.63M
Canberra$9.95M6$10.11M
All 197 players free to talk from 1 November
  1. Nathan ClearyHalfback · PEN$1.30MReported
  2. Cameron MunsterFive-eighth · MEL$1.10MReported
  3. Jake TrbojevicLock · MAN$1.10MReported
  4. James TedescoFullback · SYD$1.10MReported
  5. Latrell MitchellCentre · SOU$1.10MReported
  6. Sam WalkerHalfback · SYD$1.00MReported
  7. Valentine HolmesCentre · STI$1.00MReported
  8. Junior PauloProp · PAR$975KReported
  9. Jason TaumaloloProp · NQL$950KReported
  10. Tom FleglerProp · DOL$900KReported
  11. Tom TrbojevicFullback · MAN$900KReported
  12. Herbie FarnworthCentre · DOL$850KReported
  13. Isaah YeoLock · PEN$850KReported
  14. Jack WightonCentre · SOU$850KReported
  15. Tommy TalauWing · SYD$850KReported
  16. Clinton GuthersonFullback · STI$800KReported
  17. Jeremiah NanaiSecond row · NQL$800KReported
  18. Liam MartinSecond row · PEN$750KReported
  19. Matt BurtonFive-eighth · CBY$750KReported
  20. Moeaki FotuaikaProp · GLD$750KReported
  21. Victor RadleyLock · SYD$750KReported
  22. Bradman BestCentre · NEW$725KReported
  23. Alex JohnstonWing · SOU$705K$595K–$815K
  24. Campbell GrahamWing · SOU$700KReported
  25. Jacob SaifitiProp · NEW$700KReported
  26. Moses LeotaProp · PEN$675KReported
  27. Xavier WillisonProp · BRI$675K$600K–$750K
  28. Max KingProp · CBY$670K$570K–$770K
  29. Hudson YoungSecond row · CAN$650KReported
  30. Luke BrooksFive-eighth · MAN$650KReported
  31. Euan AitkenSecond row · SOU$645K$540K–$745K
  32. David FifitaSecond row · SOU$635K$510K–$755K
  33. Brian To'oWing · PEN$625KReported
  34. Ben HuntHooker · BRI$600KReported
  35. Briton NikoraSecond row · CRO$600KReported
  36. Jarome LuaiFive-eighth · PAR$600KReported
  37. Kurt CapewellSecond row · WAR$600KReported
  38. Moses SuliCentre · STI$600KReported
  39. Stefano UtoikamanuProp · MEL$600KReported
  40. Te Maire MartinFive-eighth · WAR$590K$470K–$705K
  41. Morgan KnowlesLock · DOL$575K$460K–$690K
  42. Charnze Nicoll-KlokstadFullback · WAR$570K$455K–$685K
  43. Blaize TalagiFive-eighth · PEN$555K$460K–$645K
  44. Connor WatsonHooker · STI$545K$435K–$655K
  45. Xavier CoatesWing · MEL$545K$450K–$640K
  46. Ativalu LisatiSecond row · MEL$540K$460K–$620K
  47. Sean O'SullivanHalfback · CBY$515K$465K–$565K
  48. Jack BostockCentre · DOL$510K$410K–$610K
  49. Cody RamseyFullback · SYD$500KReported
  50. Jack HowarthCentre · MEL$500KReported
  51. Latu FainuHalfback · WST$500KReported
  52. Kitione KautogaSecond row · PAR$485K$410K–$555K
  53. Kurt MannLock · WST$480K$380K–$575K
  54. Lehi HopoateWing · MAN$445K$355K–$535K
  55. Nat ButcherSecond row · SYD$445K$330K–$560K
  56. Oregon KaufusiProp · CRO$445K$330K–$555K
  57. Jack WilliamsProp · PAR$440K$325K–$550K
  58. Jayden SullivanHalfback · SOU$440K$365K–$510K
  59. Oliver PascoeHooker · GLD$440K$350K–$525K
  60. Eliesa KatoaSecond row · MEL$425K$315K–$535K
  61. Trai FullerFullback · DOL$425K$345K–$500K
  62. Deine MarinerWing · BRI$415K$335K–$495K
  63. Jaeman SalmonLock · CBY$415K$340K–$490K
  64. Coen HessProp · NQL$415K$315K–$510K
  65. Felise KaufusiProp · DOL$415K$360K–$465K
  66. Matt ArthurHooker · NEW$415K$360K–$465K
  67. Jethro RinakamaWing · CBY$410K$325K–$490K
  68. Jock MaddenHalfback · WST$405K$320K–$485K
  69. Kelma TuilagiSecond row · MEL$405K$320K–$485K
  70. Josh Addo-CarrWing · PAR$400KReported
  71. Josh KingProp · MEL$395K$290K–$495K
  72. Kyle FlanaganFive-eighth · STI$390K$315K–$465K
  73. Tom StarlingHooker · CAN$390K$310K–$470K
  74. Teig WiltonSecond row · CRO$385K$285K–$485K
  75. Cooper BaiLock · GLD$385K$330K–$435K
  76. Soni LukeHooker · NQL$385K$305K–$460K
  77. Zac LaybuttCentre · NQL$385K$305K–$460K
  78. Mitchell WoodsHalfback · CBY$380K$265K–$495K
  79. Connelly LemueluSecond row · DOL$370K$275K–$465K
  80. Billy SmithCentre · SYD$370K$295K–$440K
  81. Trent ToelauHooker · MEL$365K$290K–$440K
  82. Dane GagaiCentre · BRI$365K$295K–$430K
  83. Fonua PoleProp · WST$360K$265K–$450K
  84. William KennedyFullback · CRO$350KReported
  85. Mat CrokerLock · NEW$350K$280K–$415K
  86. Ben TrbojevicSecond row · MAN$340K$255K–$425K
  87. Caleb NavaleLock · MAN$340K$270K–$410K
  88. Brendan PiakuraSecond row · BRI$340K$290K–$385K
  89. Tyson FrizellLock · WST$340K$260K–$415K
  90. Chris RandallLock · GLD$335K$245K–$420K
  91. Bailey SimonssonWing · PAR$330K$265K–$395K
  92. Jordan SamraniWing · PAR$330K$265K–$395K
  93. Setu TuWing · STI$320K$255K–$380K
  94. Peter MamouzelosHooker · SOU$315K$225K–$405K
  95. Lachlan IliasFive-eighth · GLD$310K$255K–$365K
  96. Ali LeiatauaCentre · WAR$310K$245K–$370K
  97. Brad FearnleyCRO$305K$225K–$385K
  98. Kahu CapperWAR$305K$225K–$385K
  99. Jeral SkeltonWing · CBY$305K$240K–$365K
  100. Josiah KarapaniWing · BRI$300K$240K–$360K
  101. Josh PatstonSecond row · GLD$300K$195K–$400K
  102. Harrison EdwardsPAR$290K$215K–$365K
  103. Luca MorettiProp · PAR$290K$190K–$385K
  104. Ryley SmithHooker · PAR$285K$205K–$365K
  105. Hayze PerhamFullback · BRI$285K$225K–$340K
  106. Samuel HughesProp · CBY$285K$185K–$380K
  107. Xavier SavageWing · CAN$275K$220K–$330K
  108. Ben TaltyProp · BRI$270K$200K–$340K
  109. J'maine HopgoodProp · PAR$270K$200K–$340K
  110. Harrison GrahamHooker · NEW$265K$210K–$315K
  111. Siale FaeamaniGLD$265K$195K–$330K
  112. Fletcher HuntFullback · NEW$255K$205K–$305K
  113. Joash PapaliiFullback · PAR$255K$205K–$305K
  114. Leeroy WeatherallSecond row · STI$250K$185K–$315K
  115. Luke SommertonHooker · GLD$250K$200K–$300K
  116. Samuel HealeyHooker · WAR$250K$200K–$300K
  117. Thomas DellowCRO$250K$185K–$315K
  118. Blake HoskingLock · CRO$245K$180K–$310K
  119. Egan ButcherLock · SYD$245K$180K–$310K
  120. Lyhkan King-TogiaFive-eighth · STI$245K$195K–$295K
  121. Zach Dockar-ClayHooker · MAN$245K$195K–$295K
  122. Sunny KamaCentre · GLD$245K$180K–$305K
  123. Gordon Chan Kum TongHooker · CBY$240K$190K–$290K
  124. Billy ScottHooker · PEN$240K$175K–$300K
  125. Jake ElliottFive-eighth · SYD$240K$175K–$300K
  126. Jonah GloverHalfback · SOU$240K$175K–$300K
  127. Josh KerrProp · STI$240K$175K–$300K
  128. Junior TupouWST$240K$175K–$300K
  129. Zaidas MuagututiaHooker · MAN$240K$175K–$300K
  130. Max FeagaiCentre · GLD$235K$185K–$280K
  131. Bronson GarlickHooker · SOU$230K$185K–$275K
  132. James SchillerWing · NEW$230K$185K–$275K
  133. Jaylan De GrootFullback · GLD$230K$185K–$275K
  134. Luron PateaProp · PEN$230K$170K–$290K
  135. Viliami VaileaCentre · NQL$225K$180K–$270K
  136. Isaiah TassWing · SOU$225K$180K–$265K
  137. Rocco BerryWAR$220K$165K–$275K
  138. Sebastian KrisCentre · CAN$220K$175K–$265K
  139. Asu KepaoaSecond row · NEW$220K$160K–$275K
  140. Benjamin Te KuraBRI$220K$160K–$275K
  141. Harrison HassettCRO$220K$160K–$275K
  142. Patrick HerbertCentre · WST$220K$175K–$260K
  143. Araz NanvaWing · PAR$215K$160K–$270K
  144. Matt DooreyLock · PAR$215K$160K–$270K
  145. Pasami SauloProp · NEW$215K$160K–$270K
  146. Adam ChristensenSecond row · GLD$210K$155K–$265K
  147. Aublix TawhaSecond row · BRI$210K$155K–$265K
  148. Blake MozerHooker · BRI$210K$165K–$255K
  149. Jensen TaumoepeauWing · GLD$210K$155K–$265K
  150. Tom AleProp · PEN$210K$155K–$265K
  151. Corey WaddellSecond row · MAN$210K$155K–$260K
  152. Elijah RasmussenProp · DOL$210K$155K–$260K
  153. Myles MartinLock · CAN$210K$155K–$260K
  154. Edward KosiWing · SOU$205K$165K–$245K
  155. Jack HetheringtonProp · MEL$205K$160K–$250K
  156. Tyrone MunroWing · SOU$205K$165K–$245K
  157. Josiah PahuluProp · MEL$205K$150K–$255K
  158. Peter HolaProp · NEW$205K$150K–$255K
  159. Phillip CoatesWing · BRI$205K$150K–$255K
  160. LJ NonuWing · DOL$200K$145K–$250K
  161. Navren WillettWing · MAN$200K$145K–$250K
  162. Tony FrancisWing · GLD$195K$155K–$235K
  163. Royce HuntProp · WST$195K$145K–$240K
  164. Liam Le BlancProp · PEN$190K$145K–$235K
  165. Riley JonesHooker · CRO$170K$145K–$195K
  166. Latrell SiegwaltCentre · SOU$170K$145K–$190K
  167. Liam IsonFullback · CRO$155K$145K–$165K
  168. David FaleWing · STI$155K$145K–$160K
  169. Kyle McCarthyCentre · NEW$155K$145K–$160K
  170. Manaia WaitereCentre · MEL$155K$145K–$160K
  171. Sione FonuaCentre · PEN$155K$145K–$160K
  172. Brock GrayProp · GLD$150K$145K–$155K
  173. Cameron BukowskiHooker · BRI$150K$145K–$155K
  174. Chevy StewartFullback · CAN$150K$145K–$155K
  175. Cyrus Stanley-TraillProp · STI$150K$145K–$155K
  176. De La Salle Va'aProp · SYD$150K$145K–$155K
  177. Elijah KeungProp · SOU$150K$145K–$155K
  178. Elijah Salesa-LeaumoanaLock · NEW$150K$145K–$155K
  179. Ethan RobertsSecond row · WST$150K$145K–$155K
  180. Hayden BuchananCentre · STI$150K$145K–$155K
  181. Hugo HartSecond row · MAN$150K$145K–$155K
  182. Jackson SherebSecond row · MAN$150K$145K–$155K
  183. Jezaiah Funa-IutaSecond row · PAR$150K$145K–$155K
  184. John FineanganofoHooker · DOL$150K$145K–$155K
  185. Kaiden LahrsProp · NQL$150K$145K–$155K
  186. Kalani Leuluai-GoingSecond row · PEN$150K$145K–$155K
  187. Logan SpinksSecond row · CBY$150K$145K–$155K
  188. Matthew HumphriesHalfback · SOU$150K$145K–$155K
  189. Nick TsougranisSecond row · STI$150K$145K–$155K
  190. Riley PriceProp · WAR$150K$145K–$155K
  191. Salesi AtaataProp · SOU$150K$145K–$155K
  192. Sebastian Su'aProp · DOL$150K$145K–$155K
  193. Sosaia AlatiniCentre · CBY$150K$145K–$155K
  194. Talanoa PenitaniCentre · SOU$150K$145K–$155K
  195. Taylor LosaluProp · SYD$150K$145K–$155K
  196. Thomas FletcherSecond row · SOU$150K$145K–$155K
  197. William LatuSecond row · PAR$150K$145K–$155K

2027 salary. Cap Dramas Estimate unless reported.

How to read this

What "off contract on 1 November" means here. Two groups get called that, so we separate them. There are 76 players whose deals ended or end with the 2026 season. There are 197 whose contracts run out after 2027, and those are the ones who are free to negotiate with other clubs from Sunday. Fox Sports put the rule plainly on 7 October: all 17 teams "have until then to extend their soon-to-be off-contract stars before they can negotiate with rival clubs". Our clubs sections cover both groups, and we say which one a player belongs to. (Fox Sports, 7 Oct)

Labels. A figure marked Reported is a salary that has been published by a media outlet and sits on our player page with that source. A figure marked Cap Dramas Estimate is ours, shown as a range. Every figure you see below carries one of those two labels, or names the outlet that reported it.

Our output slot. Each player on the site has a slot: the salary that his on-field output would earn on our bridge table. When we say a contract is priced above our output slot, we mean the contract is more than the slot, not that the player has done anything wrong. The slot looks backwards at this year. It is not a price list for next year.

Ratings and ranks. We write each rating and rank as it appears in our player data, for example "rating 85.5, 8th of 68 props".

The league at a glance

The 2027 Top 30 cap is $12.10M per club, with a $145K minimum per player (Cap Dramas Estimate, the figure on our cap pages). On our table the Dolphins ($365K over) and the Rabbitohs ($493K over) are already above it, and the Panthers and Bulldogs have no spendable room once their open spots are filled at the minimum. Perth Bears enter in 2027 and the PNG Chiefs in 2028, and both have a wide open book.

The projected 2028 cap is $15.40M on our market page (a Cap Dramas projection, published as a $15.00M to $16.00M band; the collective bargaining agreement is unsigned, and our cap pages cite a Love Rugby League report on the rise). Against a projected cap like that, 2028 commitments tell their own story. Our table has the Roosters committed to only $6.03M for 2028, the Panthers to $6.33M, the Eels and the Rabbitohs to $6.75M each. At the other end, our estimates put the Warriors at $9.85M, the Raiders at $9.58M and the Knights at $9.50M.

The biggest names. Fox Sports says Sam Walker and Hudson Young became free agents after the Roosters and Raiders withdrew their offers on 26 October (Fox Sports, 27 Oct). Five stories will shape the market:

  1. Nathan Cleary has not signed. Fox Sports reports he will be paid at least $1.7M a season by whoever lands him (Reported, Fox Sports, 27 October). Our player page carries him at $1.30M (Reported), equal to our output slot of $1.30M.
  2. Sam Walker (Sydney Roosters, 26 Oct) is on the market after the Roosters withdrew their contract offer on 26 October. Fox Sports reported that the offer had been raised from $4.4M over four years to $5.2M, and nearer $6M with ratchet clauses (Reported, Fox Sports). That is an average of $1.3M a year on our arithmetic, against our slot of $1.00M.
  3. Harry Grant is signed to 2028 on our site, but Fox Sports says he holds a player option in his favour that had to be decided by 1 November, and it appears he has declined it.
  4. Herbie Farnworth is rating 94.4, 1st of 50 centres in our data. He sits on our page at $850K (Reported), below our output slot of $1.10M.
  5. Cameron Munster has a Storm offer that Fox Sports calls a "hefty pay cut", reported at about $750K a season (Reported, Fox Sports).

Fox Sports also reports that the PNG Chiefs' contracts are tax-free, which makes their offers worth considerably more in take-home pay than the same headline number from a Sydney club. We cannot put a cash value on that, and we do not try.

Ten players who could move the market

Each of these sets a price for someone else.

  1. 94.9rating · 1st of 27 halfbacks

    Nathan Cleary

    Panthers

    23 of 26 Panthers games, 2026

    Fox Sports says he will be paid at least $1.7M a season and that the Chiefs have made him their number one target, though it also says he is keen to stick with Penrith (Fox Sports, 27 Oct). Priced above our output slot of $1.30M at the Reported ask.

  2. 87.2rating · 4th of 27 halfbacks

    Sam Walker

    Roosters

    23 of 28 Roosters games, 2026

    The Roosters withdrew their offer on 26 October, per Fox Sports. Fox Sports reports the offer went from $4.4M over four years to $5.2M, which is $1.1M and then $1.3M a year on our arithmetic, both above our output slot of $1.00M. Fox Sports also says he is keen to stay put.

  3. 78.8rating · joint 23rd of 69 second-rowers

    Hudson Young

    Raiders

    14 of 24 Raiders games, 2026

    The rating counts the 10 games he missed. Per game played he rates 87.2, 2nd of 69 second-rowers.

    The Reported $1.1M a year from the Raiders is priced above our output slot of $501K. Fox Sports says the Chiefs have also been in the chase.

  4. 90.3rating · 1st of 38 hookers

    Harry Grant

    Storm

    21 of 24 Storm games, 2026

    At $850K (Reported) he sits $22K below his $872K output slot, and Fox Sports says he appears to have declined his option.

  5. 78.4rating · joint 14th of 50 centres

    Latrell Mitchell

    Rabbitohs

    12 of 25 Rabbitohs games, 2026

    The rating counts the 13 games he missed. Per game played he rates 94.7, 1st of 50 centres.

    At the Reported $1.10M on our page he is priced above our output slot of $510K, and Fox Sports says the Rabbitohs have let him go to market.

  6. 79.3rating · 8th of 24 five-eighths

    Cameron Munster

    Storm

    19 of 24 Storm games, 2026

    The rating counts the 5 games he missed. Per game played he rates 82.2, 2nd of 24 five-eighths.

    The Storm's Reported $750K offer is close to our output slot of $650K, and a long way below the Reported $1.10M on our page.

  7. 94.4rating · 1st of 50 centres, the highest in our data for a centre

    Herbie Farnworth

    Dolphins

    25 of 26 Dolphins games, 2026

    At $850K (Reported) he sits $250K below his $1.10M slot, the widest gap on this list, and Fox Sports has the Roosters heavily linked.

  8. 76.8rating · 23rd of 50 centres

    Bradman Best

    Knights

    18 of 28 Knights games, 2026

    The rating counts the 10 games he missed. Per game played he rates 81.0, 9th of 50 centres.

    At $725K (Reported) against a slot of $408K he is priced above our output slot, and Fox Sports names the Eels as the club most reported to want him.

  9. 85.5rating · 8th of 68 props

    Xavier Willison

    Broncos

    24 of 24 Broncos games, 2026

    At $600K to $750K (Cap Dramas Estimate) his estimate tops out $150K below his $900K slot, and the Chiefs' tax-free status is the Broncos' problem.

  10. 76.7rating · 30th of 69 second-rowers

    Liam Martin

    Panthers

    18 of 26 Panthers games, 2026

    The Reported $1M ask is well above our output slot of $430K, and Fox Sports says the Broncos and Sharks are interested.

The clubs

Brisbane Broncos

Ink-brush illustration of Xavier Willison in his club jersey
Xavier Willison, Brisbane Broncos

Off contract and in play. Our table has Brisbane committed to $10.52M of the $12.10M cap for 2027, with $1.29M spendable and two open spots (Cap Dramas Estimate). The headline name is prop Xavier Willison $600K to $750K (Cap Dramas Estimate): rating 85.5, 8th of 68 props, with an output slot of $900K. Fox Sports says he has paused talks to see what is out there, and that the tax-free Chiefs could match the Broncos' deal (Fox Sports, 27 Oct). Also in play are hooker Ben Hunt $600K (Reported) at 36 and centre Dane Gagai $295K to $435K (Cap Dramas Estimate) (rating 83.4, 7th of 50 centres, slot $725K).

Locked in. Fullback Reece Walsh $800K (Reported) and five-eighth Ezra Mam $750K (Reported) run to 2029, both above their output slots of $480K and $550K on our numbers. Lock Patrick Carrigan $750K (Reported) is signed to 2028.

What they need. A halfback, with Adam Reynolds in our 2026 off-contract group, a succession plan at hooker, and a plan for the front row if Willison walks.

Who fits. Reported link: Fox Sports says Brisbane and Cronulla have shown interest in Liam Martin $750K (Reported), and that he is asking for $1M a season (Reported, Fox Sports), well above his $430K output slot. On our numbers, Willison's estimate tops out $150K below his $900K slot, and Gagai's sits at least $290K below his $725K slot.

What's being said. Paul Crawley on NRL 360, via Fox Sports, 7 Oct, on the club's offer: "he's not a million-dollar prop".

Compare Xavier Willison and Liam Martin

Canberra Raiders

Ink-brush illustration of Hudson Young in his club jersey
Hudson Young, Canberra Raiders

Off contract and in play. Our table has the Raiders committed to $9.90M of the $12.10M cap for 2027, with $1.76M spendable and three open spots (Cap Dramas Estimate). The club announced on 26 October that it had withdrawn its latest offer to second-rower Hudson Young, who remains contracted for 2027 (Canberra Raiders, 26 Oct). Fox Sports reports the Raiders had offered about $1.1M a year, and that the Chiefs are said to have $950K set aside (Reported, Fox Sports) (Fox Sports, 27 Oct). Our page still shows Young at $650K (Reported) against an output slot of $501K.

Locked in. Halfback Ethan Sanders ($320K to $480K, Cap Dramas Estimate, rating 86.3, 6th of 27 halfbacks) sits at least $370K below his $850K output slot, the widest gap on the roster on our numbers. Our table has 2028 commitments at $9.58M (Cap Dramas Estimate), among the highest in the league.

What they need. A middle forward. Fox Sports says Josh Papalii, Corey Horsburgh and Morgan Smithies are all leaving (Fox Sports, 7 Oct). Then an edge forward if Young goes.

Who fits. Reported links: Fox Sports names Penrith's Moses Leota ($675K, Reported, output slot $600K) and Wests Tigers prop Fonua Pole as middle forward options, and says the Raiders "could make sense" for Jeremiah Nanai if they lose Young (Fox Sports, 27 Oct). Pole is $265K to $450K (Cap Dramas Estimate), at least $225K below his $675K output slot. Nanai is $800K (Reported) against a slot of $272K.

What's being said. The club's own statement on Young, 26 October: "The offer that was made was the largest in club history." (Canberra Raiders, 26 Oct)

Compare Hudson Young and Jeremiah Nanai

Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs

Ink-brush illustration of Matt Burton in his club jersey
Matt Burton, Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs

Off contract and in play. Our table has the Bulldogs committed to $11.72M of the $12.10M cap for 2027, which leaves $385K of room but $50K short once the three open spots are filled (Cap Dramas Estimate). The big name is Matt Burton ($750K, Reported, rating 83, 2nd of 24 five-eighths), $350K below his $1.10M output slot. Phil Gould wrote that Burton's manager has asked permission to test the market, and Fox Sports links the Bears and the Eels (Fox Sports, 25 Oct). Fox Sports says second-rower Jacob Preston ($750K, Reported on our page) was offered $850K a season. Prop Max King ($570K to $770K, Cap Dramas Estimate) has said publicly he wants to stay.

Locked in. Halfback Lachlan Galvin is $750K (Reported) to 2028, rating 94.3, 2nd of 27 halfbacks, with an output slot of $1.30M.

What they need. A Burton decision. Fox Sports says the Bulldogs now see him as a centre, and reporter Danny Weidler said on Triple M that it "doesn't mean he won't be well-paid, but he won't be paid to the degree of a half" (Fox Sports, 23 Oct).

Who fits. Reported links: Fox Sports says the Bulldogs "come to mind" for Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow if they lose Burton (Fox Sports, 27 Oct). He is $950K (Reported) against a $700K output slot, and CODE says he wants $1.4M a year (Reported, Fox Sports), well above our slot for a table already over the line. Fox Sports says the Bulldogs could chase Manly's Lehi Hopoate ($355K to $535K, Cap Dramas Estimate), at least $90K below his $625K output slot.

What's being said. Burton's manager David Riolo to Fox Sports: "I haven't got 16 clubs wanting him. Some couldn't afford him" (Fox Sports, 23 Oct).

Compare Matt Burton and Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow

Cronulla Sharks

Ink-brush illustration of Briton Nikora in his club jersey
Briton Nikora, Cronulla Sharks

Off contract and in play. Our table has the Sharks committed to $10.42M of the $12.10M cap for 2027, with $1.10M spendable and four open spots (Cap Dramas Estimate). Second-rower Briton Nikora is on $600K (Reported) and, per Fox Sports, is hitting the market after failing to agree an extension; he could probably get about $800K elsewhere (Reported, Fox Sports) (Fox Sports, 27 Oct). Fullback William Kennedy is $350K (Reported), rating 81.5, 7th of 25 fullbacks, $450K below his $800K output slot. Second-rower Teig Wilton ($285K to $485K, Cap Dramas Estimate, rating 81.2, 16th of 69 second-rowers) is also in play.

Locked in. Halfback Nicho Hynes is $1.00M (Reported) to 2029, rating 91.4, 3rd of 27 halfbacks, against an output slot of $1.30M. Hooker Blayke Brailey is $665K to $1.11M (Cap Dramas Estimate) to 2030. Our table has 2028 commitments at $8.48M (Cap Dramas Estimate).

What they need. Edge forwards. Nikora and Wilton both reach the market, and Fox Sports says Cameron McInnes and Siosifa Talakai are leaving.

Who fits. Reported links: Fox Sports says the Sharks are keen on Liam Martin if he cannot agree terms in Penrith, and that they will have to pay at least $700K a season to land Isaiah Papali'i (Reported, Fox Sports). On our numbers, Papali'i is $700K (Reported), rating 87.3, 5th of 69 second-rowers, $75K below his $775K output slot. Martin's $1M ask (Reported, Fox Sports) is well above his $430K slot. Fox Sports lists the Sharks among the favourites for Jack Bostock, and says they may let Nikora go to free up cash for him (Fox Sports, 27 Oct).

Compare Isaiah Papali'i and Liam Martin

Dolphins

Ink-brush illustration of Herbie Farnworth in his club jersey
Herbie Farnworth, Dolphins

Off contract and in play. Our table has the Dolphins committed to $12.47M against a $12.10M cap for 2027, with two open spots (Cap Dramas Estimate). The headline is centre Herbie Farnworth: $850K (Reported), rating 94.4, 1st of 50 centres, output slot $1.10M. Fox Sports says he is set to hit the market, with the Roosters heavily linked (Fox Sports, 27 Oct). Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow is $950K (Reported) with an output slot of $700K, and CODE Sports reported in September that he is after $1.4M a year (Reported, Fox Sports). Jack Bostock is $435K to $580K (Cap Dramas Estimate) against a slot of $390K. Tom Flegler is $900K (Reported) with a slot of $300K, and Fox Sports says he may need to take a paycut.

Locked in. Selwyn Cobbo has re-signed to 2030 at $560K to $730K (Cap Dramas Estimate) (Fox Sports, 7 Oct). Our table has 2028 commitments at $8.20M (Cap Dramas Estimate).

What they need. Cap relief. Fox Sports asks whether the club can keep Tabuai-Fidow, Cobbo, Bostock and Farnworth.

Who fits. On our numbers, Farnworth's Reported $850K sits $250K below his $1.10M output slot. Tabuai-Fidow, at the $1.4M a year CODE reports, is $700K above his $700K slot, on a cap that is already over the line. Fox Sports says Trai Fuller, on $315K to $475K (Cap Dramas Estimate), is the cheaper fullback option (Fox Sports, 27 Oct). Flegler's Reported figure is $600K above his slot, so a paycut is the likely route.

What's being said. Braith Anasta said earlier this year that it would be "nearly impossible" for the Dolphins to keep both Tabuai-Fidow and Farnworth (Fox Sports, 7 Oct).

Compare Herbie Farnworth and Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow

Gold Coast Titans

Ink-brush illustration of Zane Harrison in his club jersey
Zane Harrison, Gold Coast Titans

Off contract and in play. Our table has the Titans committed to $11.10M of the $12.10M cap for 2027, with $710K spendable and two open spots (Cap Dramas Estimate). Halfback Zane Harrison is the priority at $495K to $655K (Cap Dramas Estimate), rating 66.2, 23rd of 27 halfbacks, output slot $285K. Fox Sports reports the Titans have offered about $700K a season over three years, and that his management denies seeking $900K (Reported, Fox Sports). Prop Moeaki Fotuaika is $750K (Reported) on our page; Fox Sports says he is on $800K to $900K and may face a paycut. AJ Brimson is signed to 2030 but, Fox Sports says, has permission to check his options, with the PNG Chiefs leading (Fox Sports, 23 Oct).

Locked in. Tino Fa'asuamaleaui is $1.20M (Reported) to 2030. Jayden Campbell is $700K (Reported) to 2030, rating 86.9, 1st of 24 five-eighths, $500K below his $1.20M output slot.

What they need. A long-term halfback decision, a front-row plan, and a Brimson answer. Fox Sports says Cooper Bai looks likely to go to the Chiefs on a reported tax-free $3M over four years.

Who fits. On our numbers, Harrison's estimate and the $700K Fox Sports reports both sit above his $285K output slot, so the deal is a bet on trajectory, which is why the ratchets matter. Hooker Oliver Pascoe (rating 84.1, 7th of 38 hookers) is $350K to $525K (Cap Dramas Estimate), at least $75K below his $600K slot.

What's being said. Braith Anasta on NRL 360 called the Harrison gamble "very dangerous" if he does not play well enough in 2027 (Fox Sports, 7 Oct).

Manly Sea Eagles

Ink-brush illustration of Tom Trbojevic in his club jersey
Tom Trbojevic, Manly Sea Eagles

Off contract and in play. Our table has Manly committed to $11.76M of the $12.10M cap for 2027, with $338K spendable and no open spots (Cap Dramas Estimate). Tom Trbojevic is $900K (Reported) on our page, rating 74.1, 14th of 25 fullbacks, output slot $445K. CODE Sports reports he wants a two-year deal worth around $1M a season (Reported, Fox Sports), and Fox Sports says he is understood to be staying at Manly until at least the end of 2029. Jake Trbojevic is $1.10M (Reported), output slot $408K, and Fox Sports says he will likely retire after 2027. Halfback Luke Brooks is $650K (Reported), and Fox Sports says Manly will not stand in his way if he finds a long-term deal elsewhere (Fox Sports, 7 Oct).

Locked in. Lehi Hopoate, 21, is a potential successor to Tom at fullback, Fox Sports says, with rating 88.2, 4th of 54 wingers and a slot of $625K. Our table has 2028 commitments at $7.74M (Cap Dramas Estimate).

What they need. A price for Tom, a plan for Jake's retirement, and a way to pay Hopoate without losing him.

Who fits. Reported link: Fox Sports lists Manly among the clubs mentioned for Harry Grant. On our numbers, Grant's $850K (Reported) sits $22K below his $872K slot, but Manly have no open spot and only $338K spendable on our table, so it only works if Tom or Brooks money moves.

What's being said. Tom told 9News in October: "this is the place where I want to play my footy" and "It's where I want to finish." (Fox Sports, 26 Oct).

Melbourne Storm

Ink-brush illustration of Harry Grant in his club jersey
Harry Grant, Melbourne Storm

Off contract and in play. Our table has the Storm committed to $11.45M of the $12.10M cap for 2027, with $362K spendable and two open spots (Cap Dramas Estimate). Harry Grant is the big one: our page shows $850K (Reported) to 2028, rating 90.3, 1st of 38 hookers, output slot $872K. Fox Sports says he had a player option to decide by 1 November, and that it appears he has declined it. Cameron Munster is $1.10M (Reported), rating 79.3, 8th of 24 five-eighths, output slot $650K, and Fox Sports says he is set to become one of the NRL's highest profile free agents (Fox Sports, 25 Oct).

Also off contract. Stefano Utoikamanu is on $600K (Reported), rating 87.3, 3rd of 68 props, output slot $1.00M.

What they need. A hooker if Grant goes and a five-eighth if Munster goes.

Who fits. Fox Sports says the Storm's offer to Munster is $750K (Reported, Fox Sports), closer to our output slot of $650K than to the Reported $1.10M on our page, and that he will head for the exit unless it improves. Grant sits $22K below slot at the Reported figure. Fox Sports says Utoikamanu wants to return to Sydney, with the Roosters favoured if they pay about $1M a year (Reported, Fox Sports), level with our output slot of $1.00M.

What's being said. Munster's manager Justin Caines to CODE: "we are not ruling out a move to Sydney" (Fox Sports, 25 Oct). Storm chairman Matt Tripp to CODE: "I'm still very hopeful of keeping Harry" (Fox Sports, 25 Oct).

Compare Harry Grant and Cameron Munster

Newcastle Knights

Ink-brush illustration of Bradman Best in his club jersey
Bradman Best, Newcastle Knights

Off contract and in play. Our table has the Knights committed to $11.81M of the $12.10M cap for 2027, with $148K spendable and one open spot (Cap Dramas Estimate). Bradman Best is on our page at $725K (Reported), rating 76.8, 23rd of 50 centres, output slot $408K. Fox Sports says the Eels are interested, and that Best paused talks after an offer that did not impress him (Fox Sports, 27 Oct). Jacob Saifiti is $700K (Reported) with an output slot of $288K, and Fox Sports says he wants to stay but opted to see if there is a bigger deal. Mat Croker is $290K to $485K (Cap Dramas Estimate) with a slot of $542K.

Locked in. Kalyn Ponga is $1.20M (Reported) to 2030, output slot $750K. Dylan Brown is $1.30M (Reported) to 2030, output slot $500K. Our table has 2028 commitments at $9.50M (Cap Dramas Estimate), the third highest on our list.

What they need. Not much. Fox Sports says the club does not need to spend big, given Justin Holbrook gets the most out of his players (Fox Sports, 7 Oct).

Who fits. Reported link: Fox Sports says the Knights are apparently keen on Harry Grant, but asks how they could afford him given the money Ponga, Brown and Fletcher Sharpe are on. On our numbers that is the right question, with only $148K spendable. Croker's estimate tops out $57K below his $542K slot. Best and Saifiti are both above their output slots at their Reported figures.

What's being said. Knights coach Justin Holbrook told AAP about Best: "I love Braddy. I want him to stay." (Newcastle Herald (AAP), 27 Aug).

New Zealand Warriors

Ink-brush illustration of Kurt Capewell in his club jersey
Kurt Capewell, New Zealand Warriors

Off contract and in play. Our table has the Warriors committed to $11.65M of the $12.10M cap for 2027, with $302K spendable and one open spot (Cap Dramas Estimate). Kurt Capewell, on $600K (Reported), signed a one-year extension to 2027, and Fox Sports asks whether the Chiefs will pick him up. Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad, on $455K to $685K (Cap Dramas Estimate), and Rocco Berry are off contract at the end of 2027, and Fox Sports says Berry has been linked with the Storm (Fox Sports, 7 Oct). Hooker Samuel Healey is on about $400K, Fox Sports says, and can look elsewhere for 2028 with Egan the starter (Fox Sports, 27 Oct).

Locked in. Wayde Egan is $600K (Reported) to 2028, rating 87, 3rd of 38 hookers, output slot $700K. Erin Clark is $455K to $680K (Cap Dramas Estimate) to 2029, rating 86.7, 1st of 27 locks, output slot $1.10M. Our table has 2028 commitments at $9.85M (Cap Dramas Estimate), the highest in the league.

What they need. Centre cover if Nicoll-Klokstad goes, and a second-rower or two. The cap is nearly full for 2027 and 2028, so any addition is a swap.

Who fits. Reported link: Fox Sports says the Warriors could be a destination for Bradman Best because Nicoll-Klokstad and Berry are off contract in 2027. On our numbers Best is on $725K (Reported) against a slot of $408K, and with $302K spendable a Best signing needs a player to go the other way.

What's being said. Coach Andrew Webster on the club site, about Egan's extension: "an elite hooker who's so smart in his all-round game" (New Zealand Warriors, 22 Oct).

North Queensland Cowboys

Ink-brush illustration of Jason Taumalolo in his club jersey
Jason Taumalolo, North Queensland Cowboys

Off contract and in play. Our table has the Cowboys committed to $9.55M of the $12.10M cap for 2027, which leaves $1.39M spendable after filling the open spots (Cap Dramas Estimate). Jason Taumalolo is on $950K (Reported), rating 81.1, joint 16th of 68 props, output slot $691K. Fox Sports says the Cowboys are open to one more year, and that he will not get near the $1M a season he has been on for a decade (Fox Sports, 27 Oct). Jeremiah Nanai is on $800K (Reported) against an output slot of $272K, and Fox Sports says he looks all but certain to reach the open market. Coen Hess is $320K to $510K (Cap Dramas Estimate), slot $370K.

Locked in. Tom Dearden is on $700K (Reported) to 2029. Our table has 2028 commitments at $7.30M (Cap Dramas Estimate).

What they need. Edge forwards if Nanai goes, and a plan for the Taumalolo and Hess years beyond 2027.

Who fits. Reported links: Fox Sports asks whether the Cowboys could make a play for Tom Flegler (Fox Sports, 7 Oct). On our numbers the room is there, but Flegler's Reported $900K is $600K above his $300K output slot, so he fits only if the Dolphins' cap pushes him to a paycut. Nanai's Reported $800K is above his slot too, so the Cowboys have reason to let the market set his price and keep Hess.

What's being said. Coach Todd Payten, to 7NEWS and AAP in September, on Nanai: "I'd love it to happen before November 1" (7NEWS (AAP), 4 Sep). Fox Sports quotes him on the same player: "I know it won't happen" (Fox Sports, 27 Oct).

Parramatta Eels

Ink-brush illustration of J'maine Hopgood in his club jersey
J'maine Hopgood, Parramatta Eels

Off contract and in play. Our table has the Eels committed to $11.53M of the $12.10M cap for 2027, with $425K spendable (Cap Dramas Estimate). The target is Bradman Best, and Fox Sports says the Eels are set to offer him huge money to leave Newcastle (Fox Sports, 27 Oct). J'maine Hopgood is on $210K to $345K (Cap Dramas Estimate) on our page, though Fox Sports puts him on about $500K. Brian Kelly is $285K to $435K (Cap Dramas Estimate), rating 82.8, 13th of 54 wingers, output slot $468K, and Fox Sports says he will almost certainly be retained.

Locked in. Spencer Leniu has joined on a long-term deal, which SEN reports is four years, and Jaydn Su'A has signed to 2029. Mitchell Moses is on $1.30M (Reported) to 2029, and Fox Sports says the halves are set for 2027 with Moses and Jarome Luai (Fox Sports, 7 Oct). Our table has 2028 commitments at $6.75M (Cap Dramas Estimate).

What they need. An edge forward, wing cover and a long-term halves answer for 2028.

Who fits. Reported link: Fox Sports says an explosive second-rower would suit the Eels, and names Jeremiah Nanai. On our numbers, Nanai's Reported $800K is above his $272K output slot, and Su'A is already above his slot of $240K. Kelly's estimate tops out $33K below his $468K slot. Fox Sports says Jack Bostock is the fallback if Best stays put, and floats Matt Burton as a 2028 halves option.

What's being said. Eels General Manager of Football Mark O'Neill, on Leniu, quoted by SEN: "He's one of the elite middle forwards in the game" (SEN, 8 Oct).

Compare Matt Burton and Mitchell Moses

Penrith Panthers

Ink-brush illustration of Nathan Cleary in his club jersey
Nathan Cleary, Penrith Panthers

Off contract and in play. Our table has the Panthers committed to $11.51M of the $12.10M cap for 2027, which leaves them $425K short once the open spots are filled (Cap Dramas Estimate). Everything starts with Nathan Cleary: $1.30M (Reported) on our page, rating 94.9, 1st of 27 halfbacks. Fox Sports says he will be paid at least $1.7M a season by whoever signs him, and that the Chiefs have made him their number one target (Fox Sports, 27 Oct). Liam Martin is asking for $1M a season, Fox Sports says, against our page figure of $750K (Reported) and our output slot of $430K. Moses Leota is $675K (Reported), rating 79.1, 21st of 68 props, slot $600K.

Locked in. Dylan Edwards is on $850K (Reported) to 2028. Brian To'o is shown on our page to 2030, but Fox Sports says the Chiefs have signed him. Our table has 2028 commitments at $6.33M (Cap Dramas Estimate), the second lowest in the league.

What they need. Cleary signed, then middle forwards. Fox Sports says the front row is thin after the departure of Liam Henry, and that the club must bolster the middle if Leota leaves (Fox Sports, 7 Oct).

Who fits. On our numbers, Isaiah Papali'i (rating 87.3, 5th of 69 second-rowers) is $700K (Reported), $75K below his $775K slot, and Fox Sports says he wants to stay but may lose out if Martin is extended. Fox Sports names Max King as an outside shout for the middle.

What's being said. Fox Sports says Leota told reporters earlier in the year he could "100 per cent" see himself staying at Penrith (Fox Sports, 27 Oct).

South Sydney Rabbitohs

Ink-brush illustration of Latrell Mitchell in his club jersey
Latrell Mitchell, South Sydney Rabbitohs

Off contract and in play. Our table has the Rabbitohs committed to $12.59M against the $12.10M cap for 2027. That is $493K over the cap, and $782K short once the open spots are filled (Cap Dramas Estimate). The headline is Latrell Mitchell: $1.10M (Reported), rating 78.4, joint 14th of 50 centres, output slot $510K. Fox Sports says the club has decided to let him hit the open market, and that he played only 12 games in 2026 (Fox Sports, 27 Oct). David Fifita is $515K to $770K (Cap Dramas Estimate), and Fox Sports says he is set to stay on a three-year deal. Campbell Graham is on $700K (Reported).

Locked in. Cameron Murray is on $1.10M (Reported) to 2028. Our table lists Alex Johnston to 2028, but Fox Sports says the Chiefs have already signed him. Our table has 2028 commitments at $6.75M (Cap Dramas Estimate).

What they need. A decision on Mitchell and a halves plan for 2028. Fox Sports says Cody Walker is expected to play 2027 and retire after it (Fox Sports, 7 Oct); our page shows him off contract at the end of 2026, which does not match.

Who fits. Reported link: Fox Sports calls Souths a perfect destination for Tom Dearden. On our numbers, Dearden's Reported $700K is above his $582K output slot, and so is Mitchell's Reported $1.10M. With the club over the line, the cheaper path is Fifita, Graham and Walker, whose estimate of $320K to $480K (Cap Dramas Estimate) sits at least $270K below his $750K slot, the widest gap on the roster.

What's being said. Journalist Paul Crawley on NRL 360, on Mitchell's injury record, via Fox Sports: "you just can't afford to do that" (Fox Sports, 30 Sep).

St George Illawarra Dragons

Ink-brush illustration of Valentine Holmes in his club jersey
Valentine Holmes, St George Illawarra Dragons

Off contract and in play. Our table has the Dragons committed to $11.64M of the $12.10M cap for 2027, with $168K spendable (Cap Dramas Estimate). Fox Sports says the Dragons are overhauling the entire roster and that Valentine Holmes, on $1.00M (Reported), faces an uncertain future and a likely pay cut. Clinton Gutherson is on $800K (Reported), with an output slot of $422K. Fox Sports says Drinkwater's arrival moves him to the centres (Fox Sports, 27 Oct). Moses Suli has been told he is free to explore, Fox Sports says, on $600K (Reported) against a slot of $275K.

Locked in. Scott Drinkwater arrives on $950K (Reported) to 2029, rating 92, 2nd of 25 fullbacks. Jacob Liddle is on $350K to $515K (Cap Dramas Estimate) to 2028. Our table has 2028 commitments at $7.87M (Cap Dramas Estimate).

What they need. Outside backs. Fox Sports says Christian Tuipulotu is heading to St Helens and Tyrell Sloan has signed with Castleford (Fox Sports, 7 Oct). Then a hooker to back up Liddle.

Who fits. Reported links: Fox Sports names the Dragons among the favourites for Jack Bostock, and says they may make a play for Samuel Healey to back up Liddle. On our numbers, Healey, on about $400K a season according to Fox Sports, is the realistic fit. Bostock is $435K to $580K (Cap Dramas Estimate) against a slot of $390K, and with $168K spendable the Dragons would need Holmes or Gutherson money to go the other way.

What's being said. Coach Dean Young, to SEN in August, on Gutherson: "he'll be in the team somewhere, and we'll see where we land." (SEN, 20 Aug).

Compare Valentine Holmes and Bradman Best

Sydney Roosters

Ink-brush illustration of Sam Walker in his club jersey
Sam Walker, Sydney Roosters

Off contract and in play. Our table has the Roosters committed to $10.59M of the $12.10M cap for 2027, with $640K spendable (Cap Dramas Estimate). The pivot is Sam Walker: $1.00M (Reported), rating 87.2, 4th of 27 halfbacks. Fox Sports says the club pulled its offer, which had been lifted from $4.4M over four years to $5.2M, nearer $6M with ratchets, and that only the Chiefs could pay significantly more (Fox Sports, 27 Oct). James Tedesco is on $1.10M (Reported), with an output slot of $800K. Victor Radley is on $750K (Reported) against a slot of $358K, and Fox Sports calls $750K about right.

Locked in. Lindsay Collins is on $725K (Reported) to 2028. Our page has Spencer Leniu still on the Roosters to 2030, but Fox Sports and SEN say he has joined Parramatta. Our table has 2028 commitments at $6.03M (Cap Dramas Estimate), the lowest in the league.

What they need. Walker signed, a replacement for Leniu in the middle, and wingers.

Who fits. Reported links: Fox Sports says the Roosters are heavily linked to Herbie Farnworth, and are the favoured club for Stefano Utoikamanu. On our numbers, Farnworth's $850K (Reported) sits $250K below his $1.10M slot and Utoikamanu's $600K (Reported) sits $400K below his $1.00M slot, and the cap room appears to be there if Walker is signed at a sensible number. Cody Ramsey is the cheap internal option, on about $140K according to Fox Sports.

What's being said. Tedesco to the Sydney Morning Herald, via Fox Sports: "I wouldn't really go anywhere else" (Fox Sports, 26 Oct).

Compare Sam Walker and Herbie Farnworth

Wests Tigers

Ink-brush illustration of Latu Fainu in his club jersey
Latu Fainu, Wests Tigers

Off contract and in play. Our table has the Tigers committed to $10.82M of the $12.10M cap for 2027, with $698K spendable (Cap Dramas Estimate). Fox Sports says, citing multiple reports, that long-term extensions for the Fainu brothers are the priority before November 1 (Fox Sports, 7 Oct). Latu Fainu is on $500K (Reported), and Fox Sports says he has been earmarked to replace Luai at six. Fonua Pole is $265K to $450K (Cap Dramas Estimate), rating 80.5, 18th of 68 props, and Fox Sports says his price tag may be too much for the Tigers.

Locked in. Samuela Fainu is on $500K (Reported) to 2029. Jahream Bula is on $1.00M (Reported) to 2030, and Apisai Koroisau to 2028, rating 84.3, 6th of 38 hookers. Our table has 2028 commitments at $8.97M (Cap Dramas Estimate).

What they need. Middle forwards on a budget, and a half to partner whoever takes the six. Fox Sports says the Tigers lack the cap funds to chase the big names.

Who fits. Reported link: Fox Sports says the Tigers would love Jason Taumalolo, though his Reported $950K is above our slot of $691K. On our numbers, Pole's estimate tops out $225K below his $675K slot, which is why a rival club could pay more than the Tigers want to.

What's being said. Tigers Head Coach Benji Marshall, in the club's statement: "Samuela is a very big part of where we are going as a Club" (Wests Tigers, 22 Oct).

The new buyers

Two new clubs have cap room, a clean slate and, in the Chiefs' case, tax-free contracts. Neither has a "2027 list" in the way the other 17 do, so they get one section each.

Perth Bears

Ink-brush illustration of Tyran Wishart in a Perth Bears jersey
Tyran Wishart, Perth Bears

The book. Our table has Perth committed to $8.65M of the $12.10M cap for 2027, which leaves roughly $3.2M spendable once the open spots are filled (Cap Dramas Estimate). For 2028 our table has them committed to $10.84M against the projected $15.40M cap (Cap Dramas Estimate, a projection). Mal Meninga is the coach.

Who is in. Fox Sports says the Bears have signed Tyran Wishart to play hooker and Toby Sexton at halfback, and have collected a number of highly rated forwards (Fox Sports, 13 Oct).

What they need. A marquee name. Fox Sports says the Bears have yet to land a marquee player for their debut season.

Who fits. Reported links: Fox Sports says the Bears are interested in Latrell Mitchell, have long been linked to Matt Burton, and could use Luke Brooks, who it says is recovering from an ACL injury (Fox Sports, 7 Oct). On our numbers, Burton is the cleanest fit, with rating 83, 2nd of 24 five-eighths and an output slot of $1.10M against $750K (Reported). Mitchell at the Reported $1.10M is above his $510K slot, and Fox Sports reports he played only 12 games in 2026.

What's being said. Greg Florimo warned Meninga over a Mitchell signing: "he's got only half a season in him every year" (Fox Sports, 13 Oct). Meninga told the Sydney Morning Herald in May, on Jacob Preston: "we'll be in the picture" (The Sydney Morning Herald, 29 May).

PNG Chiefs

Ink-brush illustration of Jarome Luai in a PNG Chiefs jersey
Jarome Luai, PNG Chiefs

The book. The Chiefs enter in 2028. Our table has them committed to $5.32M of the projected $15.40M cap, with seven players signed and 23 open spots (Cap Dramas Estimate, a projection). That leaves roughly $6.7M spendable on our arithmetic. Fox Sports says their contracts are tax-free, which it says effectively doubles the take-home value of a Brisbane offer to a player like Xavier Willison (Fox Sports, 27 Oct).

Who is in. The Sydney Morning Herald names Jarome Luai, Zac Lomax, Joey Manu, Connor Watson, Brian To'o, Alex Johnston and Matty Lees (The Sydney Morning Herald, 20 Oct).

What they need. Forwards. Coach Willie Peters said as much: "forwards win matches, and backs decide by how many" (The Sydney Morning Herald, 20 Oct).

Who fits. Reported links: Fox Sports says Nathan Cleary is the Chiefs' number one target, and links Xavier Willison, Hudson Young, Jeremiah Nanai, AJ Brimson, Kurt Capewell and Xavier Coates as well, and says Cooper Bai is reported to be offered a tax-free $3M over four years (Fox Sports, 27 Oct). On our numbers, Willison's $600K to $750K (Cap Dramas Estimate) tops out $150K below his $900K slot, while Young and Nanai are priced above our output slots at the Reported figures.

What's being said. Willie Peters to the Sydney Morning Herald: "You shouldn't be aiming for anything less than chasing a trophy" (The Sydney Morning Herald, 20 Oct).

What we'll be watching

Nothing here is a betting tip.

Sources

  1. The Sydney Morning Herald · 2026-05-29
  2. SEN · 2026-08-20
  3. Newcastle Herald (AAP) · 2026-08-27
  4. 7NEWS (AAP) · 2026-09-04
  5. Fox Sports · 2026-09-30
  6. Fox Sports · 2026-10-07
  7. SEN · 2026-10-08
  8. Fox Sports · 2026-10-13
  9. Fox Sports · 2026-10-13
  10. The Sydney Morning Herald · 2026-10-20
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