November 1 free agency opens with a bang
The November 1 free agency window is just around the corner, and the NRL landscape is bracing for blockbuster contracts. At the heart of the chatter is Tino Fa’asuamaleai, whose negotiation position could reshape salaries across the league. But he’s far from the only star in the sights of clubs eyeing a dramatic jump in value after standout 2025 campaigns. Here are 10 players who could be in line for the biggest pay rises when the market officially opens.
1) Connor Tracey – a versatile fullback worth the upgrade
Connor Tracey has established himself as a dependable weapon at fullback for Canterbury, earning a significant step up from his earlier deals. As the Bulldogs explore stability behind a reshaped spine, Tracey’s ability to cover multiple outside-back positions makes him an attractive option for clubs seeking versatility without breaking the bank. Expect a healthy salary bump if he hits the open market on November 1.
2) Billy Burns – earning a chance to be a backbone player
Burns finished the 2025 season strongly with Cronulla and could be rewarded with a fresh contract that recognises his role as a cornerstone in any pack. Given his development arc and the salary cap realities of several clubs, Burns might command a Multi-year deal above the minimum, especially if he can translate late-season form into sustained impact.
3) Jesse Colquhoun – lockdown the middle and extend his value
Cronulla’s Jesse Colquhoun stepped up when Cam McInnes was sidelined, impressing with reliability and durability in the No.13 role. His growth through recent injuries has only amplified interest, and a strong bargaining position awaits him as teams look for a long-term middle forward who can impact for 60 minutes each game.
4) Tino Fa’asuamaleai – the marquee target with a $1.5m ceiling
Fa’asuamaleai is the marquee name in this cohort. He’s reportedly assessing several offers, including bids from clubs aiming to land a genuine superstar in the front row. With potential deals approaching $1.5 million per season, his decision will ripple across the market, prompting others to re-evaluate spine and forward packs.
5) Jayden Campbell – a rising livewire in demand
Jayden Campbell’s contract situation on the Gold Coast has attracted attention from rival clubs. His evolving role and potential to play as a No.7 or No.1 makes him a premium target for teams seeking a dynamic ball-player with a high ceiling. Expect strong interest and a corresponding pay rise if a swap occurs.
6) Tyran Wishart – versatile playmaker with starting-pivot potential
Wishart’s ability to slot into halves, backline, or hooker roles gives him serious leverage in free agency. With clubs seeking adaptable spine depth, Wishart could secure a lucrative deal by marketing himself as a flexible, high-IQ operator who can start or influence games in multiple positions.
7) Jaxon Purdue – next-gen talent ready for a bigger stage
The Cowboys’ rising star is already eyeing a move that could see his salary leap from the low-to-mid six figures to a significant level. Purdue’s speed, vision, and versatility across the backline and halves make him a high-end target for clubs looking to invest in long-term development and immediate impact.
8) Lindsay Smith – a Panthers pillar chasing a life-long deal
As a core pillar of Penrith’s pack, Smith is on track for a substantial pay rise. With the Panthers weighing a potential “Panther for life” deal, Smith’s value is tied to his continued form and the club’s cap strategy, though rivals may push hard if free agency opens with a fresh offer sheet.
9) Hamish Stewart – Dragons’ bright young gun in line for a leap
Stewart’s breakthrough season, limited by injuries in 2025, hasn’t dimmed his ceiling. A strong off-season and a favorable contract could see Stewart rewarded with a robust raise as he cements himself as a key long-term piece for the Dragons or a suitor elsewhere.
10) Jye Gray – tipping towards a lucrative stay or a high-stakes switch
Gray’s breakout 2025 campaign has drawn interest from the rugby league and a rival code, with a reported $2.4 million offer on the table from R360. NRL clubs will be under pressure to match or exceed, weighing the risk and reward of losing a homegrown talent who can anchor a spine for years to come.
What this means for clubs and players
The coming free agency period promises a re-drawing of the NRL’s power maps. Tino Fa’asuamaleai’s decisions could set optimistic benchmarks for forwards across the league, while backlines and halves futures hinge on the willingness of teams to invest in up-and-coming stars like Purdue, Campbell, and Wishart. For fans, it’s a season-defining window that could deliver fresh plate-spinning for 2026 and beyond.
