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.
Parramatta Eels: Jack de Belin
Currently off-contract: Junior Paulo, Richard Penisini, Will Penisini, Jake Tago, Kelma Tuilagi, Ronald Volkman
The Eels have had a very difficult, but also very injury-impacted season under Jason Ryles, which will buy both the coach and the playing group some wiggle room as they prepare for the 2027 campaign.
There is no obvious player that needs to be shown the door in their off-contract list, but it's fairly clear the club option for Jack de Belin hasn't been taken up yet for a reason.
The former Dragon hasn't quite hit his mark in blue and gold as he approaches the end of his career.
The club option on his deal seemed to be a smart bit of business by Parramatta at the time, and it looks even better at the end of the year.
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.