The Mole: Dragons Unveil ‘Hit List’ as High-Paid Stars Face Uncertainty

Officials at the Dragons are compiling a list of players whose contracts are expiring for the upcoming season, seeking a swift resolution in the wake of the post-Shane Flanagan transition.

This month, Wide World of Sports indicated that the club is eyeing a significant roster overhaul following a troubling start to 2026, with 11 players due to become free agents, most of whom are unlikely to be retained.

Additionally, some higher-paid players under contract until 2027 will be encouraged to explore their options elsewhere.

This approach would provide the Dragons with ample salary cap space to recruit new talent, as the current squad is in urgent need of a revamp after enduring 11 consecutive losses.

Jaydn Su’A has already departed to the Eels, and notable players such as Damien Cook, Luciano Leilua, Tyrell Sloan, Blake Lawrie, and Christian Tuipulotu are among those without a contract for 2027.

The Dragons have secured Keaon Koloamatangi from the Rabbitohs to strengthen their forward pack, and they are closing in on a deal with Cowboys fullback Scott Drinkwater.

However, the club’s primary need is for impactful playmakers in the halves, as the partnership between Daniel Atkinson and Kyle Flanagan has struggled to elevate the attack this season.

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While the pool of halves available is scarce, four players could potentially energise the joint venture if young Kade Reed cannot resolve the issue.

At the top of the list are Warriors duo Tanah Boyd and Chanel Harris-Tavita, both of whom are having outstanding seasons across the Tasman.

The Warriors possess considerable depth in the halves, making it likely that at least one will depart.

Two additional off-contract halves that could prove beneficial for the Dragons are the Cowboys’ Jake Clifford and the undervalued Dolphin, Kodi Nikorima.

Ideally, the Dragons would prefer to delay recruitment until the coaching situation for 2027 is clarified, but with quality players being snapped up daily, hesitation could be detrimental.

Knights hooker seeks better contract terms

The Knights have proposed a one-year extension to promising hooker Harrison Graham, but the former Dolphin’s management is seeking a longer-term agreement.

At 24, Graham has participated in five matches this season, all off the bench, achieving three wins and demonstrating his ability to boost the team’s intensity.

Newcastle appreciates what Graham contributes, but with Kalyn Ponga and Dylan Brown occupying a significant portion of their salary cap, there is limited flexibility for other players within the squad.

If Graham continues to impress, the club might find a way to provide him with the additional security he desires.

Dolphins talent in contention for Queensland Origin

Dolphins second-rower Kulikefu Finefeuiaki has emerged as a standout performer in 2026, generating buzz as a potential Queensland Origin candidate.

His consistent performance has made him the most impressive player within a fluctuating Dolphins forward pack, showcasing his capacity to break tackles and defend fiercely.

At just 22 years old, he is at the perfect age to make an Origin debut, and coach Billy Slater has proven he’s not afraid to inject fresh talent into high-pressure matches.

Finefeuiaki was included in the Maroons’ extended squad last year, signalling that he is firmly on Queensland’s radar.

Raiders recruit a promising new Benji

A new Benji is set to make waves in the rugby league scene.

The Raiders have signed exciting Queanbeyan Blues fullback Benji McNamara to a four-year contract.

At just 16 years old, he shares a penchant for scoring, reminiscent of his famous namesake, Benji Marshall, in his prime.

McNamara was the leading try-scorer in the under-13 Division One competition in the Canberra region during 2024 and turned heads from multiple rival clubs before the Raiders secured him long-term.