NRL Player Market: Unsigned Talent Amidst Club Reshuffles
As the NRL landscape continues to evolve, a significant number of contracted players find themselves without a confirmed home for the 2027 season. With over four months passed since November 1st, a staggering 136 players from club Top 30 lists are yet to secure their futures beyond 2026. This situation is particularly acute for the newly established Perth Bears, who still need to fill more than half of their inaugural Top 30 roster. Across the league, clubs are actively seeking to complete their squads, whether through re-signing existing talent or scouting new recruits.
The pool of unsigned players is far from lacking in quality. A closer examination reveals a wealth of talent, with many individuals possessing the age, skill, and potential to be highly valuable assets to rival clubs. While established stars nearing the twilight of their careers, such as Cody Walker, have been excluded from this analysis due to their likely diminished market value, the remaining players represent a compelling opportunity for teams looking to strengthen their rosters.
Here’s a look at 20 of the most notable players currently without a contract for the 2027 season:
Rising Stars and Established Veterans on the Market
Ata Mariota (Canberra Raiders)
The Raiders’ prop has yet to commit to a new deal in the nation’s capital. While his game time has been somewhat limited by established players, Mariota possesses significant upside and has showcased his potential at NRL level. His hard-hitting, powerful running style makes him an attractive prospect for rival clubs. Once heralded as one of the game’s best young talents before his debut, Mariota’s trajectory suggests he has the capacity to reach elite status. The question remains: where will he ply his trade?Cory Paix (Brisbane Broncos)
Paix has experienced a turbulent few years. Initially, it seemed his Broncos career was over, with the club reportedly looking to move him on due to salary cap pressures and his failure to fully realise his potential as a versatile playmaker. However, under a new coaching regime, Paix found his way back into first-grade and has worked hard to improve his game. With Blake Mozer needing game time to ensure his long-term retention, and with Ben Hunt and Billy Walters also at the club, Paix may find himself surplus to requirements, despite his desire to stay in Brisbane. The Broncos appear to be building towards a future with Walters and Mozer as their primary dummy-half options.Chanel Harris-Tavita (New Zealand Warriors)
The Warriors face a crowded situation in their halves department for the upcoming season. With Tanah Boyd, Jett Cleary, Chanel Harris-Tavita, Jye Linnane, and Luke Metcalf all contracted and capable of playing in the halves, tough decisions loom. Metcalf is expected to be the primary halfback, while Cleary and Linnane are seen as future prospects. This leaves Harris-Tavita and Boyd potentially looking for new homes. Despite having previously stepped away from the NRL, Harris-Tavita has impressed over the past 12 months, particularly when stepping up during Metcalf’s injury absence in 2025. His ability to play five-eighth, halfback, and even hooker in a pinch makes him a valuable asset for many clubs.Phillip Sami (Gold Coast Titans)
Sami brings a wealth of experience and consistency to the open market. A two-time Queensland State of Origin representative, he has played 143 NRL games and scored 73 tries. The Ipswich-born centre or winger has been a mainstay for the Titans since his 2017 debut. While his tenure with the club may be drawing to a close, speculation persists about a potential move to the Perth Bears, given Mal Meninga’s past involvement with Sami.Thomas Jenkins (Penrith Panthers)
Jenkins emerged as a feel-good story for the Panthers in 2025. After a challenging stint with the Newcastle Knights, he returned to Penrith, initially on a lower-tier contract. He then forced his way into a struggling Panthers side, announcing his arrival on the NRL stage. Despite being dropped for the finals, his return to first-grade was a significant achievement. His utility value, capable of playing wing or centre, makes him an attractive proposition, especially if he continues to keep Izack Tago out of the starting lineup. At just 24, his upside is considerable.John Bateman (North Queensland Cowboys)
Bateman appears to be on the outer at the Cowboys, having been dropped and overlooked for early-season squads. At 32, he is approaching the end of his career, and the possibility of a move back home may be on the cards if his current situation doesn’t improve. While not a top priority for most clubs, his experience and ability to play in the forwards, coupled with his potential to still influence games with strong runs, could make him a valuable signing for teams seeking depth and leadership.Sam Verrills (Gold Coast Titans)
Verrills is arguably the premier dummy-half available on the market, a position that is notoriously thin in terms of depth. His performances for the Sydney Roosters and the Gold Coast Titans have demonstrated his capability at NRL level. Despite not reaching his full potential at the struggling Titans, a change of scenery could be beneficial. The Perth Bears, in need of a hooker for their inaugural squad, are a likely suitor. Verrills offers strong defence, consistent service, and attacking contributions.Trai Fuller (The Dolphins)
Reports suggest Fuller could be heading to the English Super League, a move that would surprise many. Despite being 28 and having had limited NRL opportunities, Fuller has shown flashes of brilliance when given the chance. With Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow now occupying the fullback role at the Dolphins, Fuller needs to find a new club to secure regular first-grade football. If a move to England doesn’t materialise, at least two other NRL clubs are reportedly interested, and Fuller has the potential to “set the competition on fire” if given consistent game time.Sione Katoa (Cronulla Sharks)
As one of two wingers on this list from the Sharks, Katoa appears the more likely to depart the Shire. A veteran of the Cronulla system, his starting spot has been under pressure. However, with Ronaldo Mulitalo sidelined for an extended period, Katoa’s value has been underscored. With 84 tries in 129 games, his scoring ability is undeniable, and other clubs are sure to be interested. The Sharks face salary cap pressures and a crowded backline, making Katoa a potential casualty.Sam Stonestreet (Cronulla Sharks)
Stonestreet represents the future for wingers at the Sharks. Despite impressing when filling in for Katoa and Mulitalo, he has struggled for consistent game time. Having signed a one-year extension for 2026, he is set to become a primary option this year, which could significantly boost his stock. The Dragons were previously linked to him but opted against a move. Cronulla will likely be keen to retain him, but financial constraints may prove a hurdle.Kurt Mann (Canterbury Bulldogs)
Mann’s resurgence in 2025, which even earned him State of Origin selection, has revitalised his career. While his time in the game is likely limited, he appears to have a year or two of strong football left. His ability to play lock, ball-play, and defend effectively has caught the attention of several clubs. The Parramatta Eels, for instance, might see similarities in his profile to Dylan Walker, suggesting a potential short-term play.Kodi Nikorima (The Dolphins)
Nikorima enjoyed a strong 2025 season for the Dolphins, often overshadowed by the form of Isaiya Katoa. However, Nikorima’s influence in the five-eighth role was crucial. A long-time utility player, he has now established the number six as his best position. At 31, he is likely looking to extend his career, and his extensive experience, including over 220 NRL games and 18 Tests for New Zealand, makes him a valuable addition for many teams seeking a reliable playmaker.Morgan Smithies (Canberra Raiders)
Smithies joined the NRL from Wigan Warriors and has made a solid impact for the Raiders over two seasons. The 25-year-old still has significant upside and potential for further development. While a new deal with Canberra seemed imminent, timelines have shifted, creating intrigue around his future. Despite the delay, it’s still probable he will re-sign with the Raiders. However, his ability to make a difference for other clubs means there could be competition for his signature, with the Perth Bears a speculative possibility.Luciano Leilua (St George Illawarra Dragons)
Leilua is the sole Dragons representative on this list and has had an excellent pre-season, shedding significant weight under coach Shane Flanagan. This hard work has positioned him to increase his value during the upcoming campaign. If he can refine his “rocks and diamonds” style, he could become a lethal weapon. However, with the Dragons’ abundance of young forwards, a long-term stay at the club seems unlikely. He is, however, expected to secure another NRL deal elsewhere.Jake Averillo (The Dolphins)
A versatile player, Averillo’s move from the Bulldogs to the Dolphins for their inaugural season now looks set to be short-lived. With Jack Bostock’s return from injury and the Dolphins’ overall fitness, Averillo could find himself on the outer, limited to bench duties or reserve grade. This is not a reflection of his abilities; he is a hard worker who tackles efficiently and makes those around him better. He is expected to attract interest on the free agency market, and his on-field performances arguably warrant a higher ranking.Connor Tracey (Canterbury Bulldogs)
Tracey’s future at the Bulldogs is uncertain, not due to a lack of form, but because the club is still defining its best spine configuration. While he features in most scenarios, the emergence of Mitchell Woods and ongoing questions about Matt Burton and Stephen Crichton’s long-term positions could make his role untenable. Tracey, a utility player who has secured the fullback position, is clearly most comfortable there. While the fullback market is saturated, many clubs could still make a play for him, confident in his ability to perform at NRL level.Jamie Humphreys (South Sydney Rabbitohs)
Humphreys emerged as one of the breakout stars of 2025. Despite an interrupted season due to injury and suspension, he delivered several strong performances, notably securing the halfback jersey ahead of Lewis Dodd. Having joined the Rabbitohs from the Manly Sea Eagles with the intention of being a utility player, he impressed significantly. Heading into 2026 off-contract, he is looking to either secure a new deal with Souths or put himself in the shop window. His stock is expected to continue rising as he adapts to the NRL level.Jesse Ramien (Cronulla Sharks)
Ramien has already been linked with rival clubs, suggesting a departure from Cronulla at the end of the season is likely. A powerful and aggressive centre, he has faced challenges with ball-handling and defence. Despite his talent, he may not have reached his full potential at the Sharks, and a change of scenery could be beneficial. Rumours link him with the Cowboys, and at 28, with 171 games under his belt, he still has plenty to offer. Coach Craig Fitzgibbon is reportedly more focused on providing game time for emerging talents like Michael Gabrael.Roger Tuivasa-Sheck (New Zealand Warriors)
Assuming he doesn’t retire at the end of 2026, Tuivasa-Sheck likely has several good years left in the NRL. His versatility and experience make him an attractive prospect for any club. However, his willingness to leave Auckland for anything other than a lucrative overseas rugby union deal remains to be seen. A proven performer at fullback, wing, and centre, he was still among the top ten for run metres in 2025. The potential signing of Will Warbrick at the Warriors could force the club to part ways with either Tuivasa-Sheck or Dallin Watene-Zelezniak to manage their roster and salary cap.Junior Paulo (Parramatta Eels)
Paulo is one of the better props still unsigned for 2027. His recent form has been a significant rebound, reaching levels not seen since 2025. After a period where his future at the club seemed uncertain, he now appears capable of playing on for another couple of years. At 32, and with 265 games to his name, he is unlikely to rush into a decision, especially with the possibility of reaching the 300-game milestone. Whether he stays with the Eels, who have a host of young forwards coming through, or moves elsewhere, his recent performances indicate he would be a valuable acquisition.William Kennedy (Cronulla Sharks)
The Sharks have a substantial number of players off-contract, and Kennedy is likely to be one of those moving on. The club’s salary cap issues run deep, making it impossible to retain everyone. Kennedy, who is backed up by Liam Ison at the Sharks, could head to another Sydney club, the Perth Bears, or even the English Super League. The latter is a possibility due to the crowded fullback market in the NRL. Kennedy is a capable player, arguably in the top half of fullbacks when at his best, but his contract expiring at an unfavourable time, coupled with a reduced wage for 2026, makes an extension unlikely.Murray Taulagi (North Queensland Cowboys)
Taulagi, an Origin-level winger, has been hampered by injuries over the past 12 months. He is among a group of Cowboys players who could depart this year or next. He has already been linked with Sydney clubs, including the Dragons, making an extension with North Queensland seem improbable. The Cowboys are looking to streamline their roster, and Taulagi may also be seeking a fresh start to regain his representative form. At 27, his impressive strike rate of 63 tries in 109 games, coupled with his defensive soundness and game awareness, makes him a highly sought-after player.Shawn Blore (Melbourne Storm)
Blore has developed into a strong second-rower within the successful Storm system and appears almost certain to leave the club. Reports indicate a desire to return to Sydney once his contract expires at the end of 2026. Intriguingly, his performances have been somewhat overshadowed by playing alongside Eliesa Katoa, widely considered the best second-rower in the game. However, Katoa’s season-ending injury in 2025 opens a significant opportunity for Blore to step into a more prominent role, potentially increasing his value substantially. The race for his signature is expected to be competitive, as few clubs would overlook a quality, experienced second-rower from the Melbourne system.Selwyn Cobbo (The Dolphins)
Cobbo’s NRL journey has been one of the most talked-about in recent times. A dynamic outside back capable of playing fullback, wing, or centre, he possesses representative-level talent at his best. Still young, the potential upside on his signature is immense. However, consistently unlocking that potential has been a challenge, leading to his move from the Broncos to the Dolphins on what appears to be a career-reviving one-year deal. While his interest in leaving Queensland is debatable, he is no longer commanding the seven-figure salaries once rumoured. Despite past issues, Cobbo appears to be in good shape at the Dolphins and can quickly re-establish his value with strong performances this year, making him a player many clubs should monitor.Jaxon Purdue (North Queensland Cowboys)
Purdue is arguably the most targeted player currently on the open market, with the Cowboys facing a significant battle to retain him beyond 2026. This versatile young talent, capable of playing centre or in the halves, has already become a crucial player for North Queensland at just 20 years of age. The Cowboys are desperate to keep him, but interest from clubs across the country, including Perth and Sydney, is strong. While his Mackay origins might give the Cowboys an edge, their indecision regarding his best position and ongoing salary cap pressures could lead Purdue to explore other options. His potential to become a franchise player for the next decade is the key selling point for both the Cowboys and rival clubs.
