Most clubs are beginning to get close to a full squad for the 2027 NRL season, but there are still plenty of decisions to be made around the competition.
All up, there are about 120 spots left on Top 30s for next year, and that means there are numerous players with their futures yet to be secured.
They range from youngsters, to out of favour players, to some that will raise eyebrows.
While all the focus will be on those who will re-sign, or change clubs, there are some players who simply don't fit into club's plans moving forward.
This is the one player of each club's off-contract list who should not be re-signed for 2027 and beyond.
North Queensland Cowboys: John Bateman
Currently off-contract: John Bateman, Zac Herdegen, Mason Kira, Kaiden Lahrs, Matthew Lodge, Sam McIntyre, Kai O'Donnell, Jaxson Paulo, Murray Taulagi
The Cowboys are one of the more uncertain sides even this late in the season over what their squad and best side will look like in 2027.
As it stands, they have almost ten spots still to fill, and a long list of off-contract players.
There is plenty of youth among the list, but the easy answer in this predicament is John Bateman.
The English second-rower has been struck down by injuries in Townsville, but like during his stint at the Wests Tigers, he has failed to match what he was able to put together at the Canberra Raiders, or in the English Super League.
It's likely his time in the NRL is coming to an end.
For Manly, the club would be better off retiring Tom and Jake, rather than sacking Ben.
Ben has played 18 matches this season.
Jake has played 19 matches, but it is accepted that his body is shot, and he is nowhere near as effective on field as he used to be.
Tom has played 9 matches for his $1.3million, and has chronic hamstring injuries.
Medically retire Tom and Jake and free up a couple of million dollars of salary cap. Give Ben the opportunity to leave if he doesn’t want to stay without his brothers.
The club can avoid any hurt feelings by sitting on its hands for twelve months until the Tom and Jake contracts expire, but given they are unlikely to play finals this year or next without a roster refresh, that is a poor strategy and a slap in the face for the fans.
‘The bottom line is he doesn’t fit into Canterbury’s system.’
Really? We should be trying to lower a bit of Burto’s money, he’s been crazy at centre and looks better now. This quote is also just insane: ‘If a club like the Perth Bears want to come to the table for Burton, then Phil Gould and Cameron Ciraldo should be saying thankyou.’
agree re Sharks Uele.Injuries havent helped him . The pack needs needs some retention and recruiting, looks like that is happening. hatstacks callhoun becoming a very good player..glad him and B Burns staying. Interesting to see how harrison hassett is developing.