The November 1 player transfer deadline is shaping up to be one of the most significant in recent rugby league history, with a record $65 million anticipated to be spent. Teams are poised to engage in a flurry of activity as numerous high-profile players become available. The Papua New Guinea (PNG) Chiefs have emerged as major disruptors, having already demonstrated an appetite for marquee signings, and they are expected to be active once the transfer window opens. The Perth Bears also plan to target key acquisitions as the off-contract period approaches.
Among the clubs facing the greatest challenges are the Dolphins. Their roster boasts several star players, including Herbie Farnworth, who is reportedly considering a move to the Sydney Roosters, and Jack Bostock, thought to be seeking a change of environment. The club is confident it can retain most of its talent but acknowledges that notable departures are likely. As a result, the Dolphins carry an “extreme” risk rating for player turnover.
Similarly, the Brisbane Broncos enter the deadline under pressure following a disappointing season. Key players such as Xavier Willison, Jordan Riki, and Deine Mariner are set to become free agents, creating uncertainty about the squad’s future. Brisbane’s efforts will focus heavily on retaining these athletes, with Willison in particular expected to attract significant interest from other clubs. The Broncos’ risk is also classified as “extreme.”
The Gold Coast Titans have identified Cooper Bai and Zane Harrison as critical figures to secure amid potential market interest, including bids from PNG. Both players are considered top priorities, with club officials expressing confidence about Harrison’s commitment, while Bai has reportedly reconsidered a previous agreement with Melbourne Storm. The Titans’ risk level is assessed as “high.”
The North Queensland Cowboys appear more stable than some rivals. Star forwards Jason Taumalolo and Coen Hess are set to remain, with Jeremiah Nanai being the primary player possibly entering the open market. Nanai’s recent limited game time adds an element of caution to the Cowboys’ approach. Consequently, the club’s turnover risk is categorized as “low.”
Newcastle Knights face uncertainty around key players Bradman Best and Jacob Saifiti, both of whom have signaled willingness to test the market. Best, in particular, has attracted interest from Sydney’s Parramatta Eels, while Saifiti has received a contract offer but could be swayed by more lucrative opportunities. Other squad members, including several from their recent grand final appearance, may also be affected by roster changes. The Knights are rated as “high” risk.
The St. George Illawarra Dragons are primarily focused on recruiting rather than re-signing current players. Some, such as Josh Kerr and Moses Suli, have been advised to seek opportunities elsewhere, while Clint Gutherson is expected either to retire or switch leagues. Valentine Holmes is likely to require a substantial pay cut to remain. The Dragons plan to invest heavily to acquire a strike outside back and have been given a “safe” risk rating amid their rebuilding approach.
Manly Sea Eagles are in a transitional phase with key players Tom and Ben Trbojevic expected to enter contract negotiations. The club’s significant staff turnover increases the likelihood that both could explore the market. Veteran halfback Luke Brooks has been informed that he will not be re-signed, though the club is open to an early departure if another team is interested. Manly’s risk rating is “high.”
The Penrith Panthers appear proactive in their negotiations, with Isaiah Yeo agreeing to a multi-year extension and Nathan Cleary reportedly interested in re-signing. However, some players such as Blaize Talagi face uncertain futures. The retention of key talents Liam Martin and Moses Leota also remains a priority. The Panthers bear an “extreme” risk due to the volume of off-contract players.
Cronulla Sharks face potential significant changes, with important squad members William Kennedy, Briton Nikora, and Teig Wilton poised for free agency. The club will aim to retain promising younger players, including Thomas Dellow and Liam Ison, while seeking to fill gaps left by departing veterans. Their turnover risk is rated as “high.”
Finally, the New Zealand Warriors have a number of notable off-contract players including Kurt Capewell, Wayde Egan, and Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad, among others. Details remain limited as the club prepares for the upcoming player market.
As the November 1 deadline approaches, the landscape is set for a dynamic period of player movements across the league, with several clubs needing to secure key personnel to maintain competitiveness while others look to capitalize on the open market to bolster their squads.