The Melbourne Storm have confirmed five players have put pen to paper on new deals, with all of Moses Leo, Hugo Peel, Stanley Huen, Trent Toelau and Jack Hetherington confirming their futures.
Of the five players, Leo and Toelau have committed for the longest period, through to the end of 2029.
Official records indicated Leo had a club option for 2027, although the Storm, in their signing update, confirmed the former New Zealand Rugby Sevens star was locked in for 2027 and has added two years to his tenure at the club.
With the looming departures of Will Warbrick to the New Zealand Warriors and Nick Meaney to the Perth Bears, Leo will be in contention for more game time in 2027, although the arrival of Jamayne Isaako and Bronson Xerri does offset the losses.
Leo played two games in his first NRL season, but added another 17 during 2026 and has impressed.
“Moses has shown impressive growth since making the switch to rugby league. Changing codes is never easy, but he's embraced the challenge and worked hard to develop his game,” Director of Football Frank Ponissi said.
Leo's long-term deal ensures he is off the open market until at least November 1, 2028, by which time the Storm will have a clear indication of whether the centre and winger is worth investing in for the remainder of his career.
Leo could yet have a starting role in 2027, with reports indicating Jack Howarth is also on the way out.
Young gun fullback and winger Hugo Peel is the other player who has locked in through to the end of 2029.
The seventh Victorian player to wear the Storm colours, he debuted in Round 9 and will find increasing opportunities in the years to come.
“Hugo has made great progress this season and we're delighted to have him signed up for the next three years. He's a local kid who has worked hard throughout the last 12 months, overcoming a knee injury mid-season to work his way back into our first-grade squad and contribute strongly,” Ponissi said.
Meanwhile, Huen has re-signed through to the end of 2028, while Toelau and Hetherington, who were left off the recent Storm list of departures, have confirmed their contracts for 2027.
“We've been pleased with Stan's development since joining the Club. He's worked hard over the last few years, culminating in his progression through our pathway ranks and his NRL debut this year. We're delighted to have his future secured until 2028,” Ponissi said.
“Having Trent back in Storm colours this season has been great to see. He's a hard-working player who adds great value to our squad with his versatility across several key positions.
“Jack has been a valued and hard-working member of our squad in 2026, adding good experience and plenty of character to our group. He's a senior player who leads with his actions, both on and off the field, and we're pleased to extend his stay in Melbourne."
Huen, a rising star at dummy half, will likely play second fiddle to Harry Grant in 2027 with Tyran Wishart heading to Perth, while Toelau is also in the mix for a spot off the bench.
Hetherington played a handful of games for the Storm in 2026, and the middle and edge forward will again be in the mix for minutes heading into the new year.
