The race for Ben Hunt’s signature is shaping up to be the most pivotal decision of the NRL off-season. With heavyweights like the Sydney Roosters, Brisbane Broncos, and Canterbury Bulldogs all vying for the Kangaroos and Queensland Origin star, the team that secures Hunt will instantly elevate their premiership prospects.
Hunt, set to turn 35 in March, has already met with the Roosters, Broncos, and Dolphins. However, Bulldogs boss Phil Gould will make a last-ditch attempt to lure the playmaker later this week. The Dolphins, despite their growth, seem an unlikely destination for Hunt to chase a premiership. This leaves the Bulldogs, Roosters, and Broncos in a three-way battle for his services.
The Roosters remain strong contenders after a resilient season, while the Broncos are rebuilding under new coach Michael Maguire. For the Bulldogs, Hunt’s leadership and experience could fill crucial gaps at halfback and fullback, making them genuine top-four threats.
Meanwhile, St George Illawarra is already eyeing South Sydney’s Lachlan Ilias as a potential replacement. The Dragons have conducted a medical check on Ilias and could add him to a star-studded lineup featuring new recruits Damien Cook, Clint Gutherson, and Valentine Holmes.
With the NRL blocking any cut-price deals for Hunt, his decision could come down to the clubs’ financial strategies and their premiership ambitions. A resolution is expected by next week, and the outcome could dramatically reshape the 2024 NRL landscape.
