With $5 billion floating around, the NRL player market has gone wild

NRL clubs are preparing for major roster reshuffles as the open market approaches on November 1, with a reported $5 billion floating across the player market. Roosters half Sam Walker looks increasingly likely to test free agency on that date, while Penrith co-captain Nathan Cleary is also linked, and Isaah Yeo appears set to stay at the Panthers. Yeo’s situation is shaped by teammate Brian To’o reportedly heading to the PNG Chiefs from 2028, effectively opening salary-cap space. Other movement includes Bulldogs player Jacob Preston seeking a “right price” to remain, Hudson Young weighing options including the Chiefs or the Perth Bears, and Corey “Hot Dog” Horsburgh departing coach Ricky “Sticky” Stuart for the Perth Bears. Jayden Brailey leaves the Raiders for the Wests Tigers, Matt Lodge joins Leeds for the rest of the season before linking with the Cowboys near the NRL finals, and Daly Cherry-Evans heads to Hull. The volatility is attributed to major new clubs and a $5.3 billion broadcast deal beginning 2028 to 2034, plus salary-cap expectations.