NRL: Sam Walker signs new contract with Roosters

The Sydney Roosters will continue to build their future around Sam Walker, preventing their rivals from re-signing the NRL’s top young midfielder.

Walker’s new two-year deal, previously linked to a return home to Brisbane, was announced just days after the player market opened on November 1. He will remain at the club until 2027.

The 22-year-old is expected to miss a significant portion of the 2025 campaign due to an anterior cruciate ligament injury he suffered in the penultimate round of the 2024 regular season.

But Walker is seen as vital to the Roosters retaining their status as premiership heavyweights, who will be put to the test in 2025 after a major squad change.

“I’m delighted to have extended my contract with the Roosters. It’s a club that makes me feel at home and I’m grateful for the support of Robbo (coach Trent Robinson), my teammates and the entire staff,” Walker said.

“I’m looking forward to returning to training later this month so I can continue to work hard on my rehabilitation and play my part in the team.”

Veteran rookie Chad Townsend is set to start the season at half with Sandon Smith as Walker’s cover.

Walker has played 77 games for the Roosters since making his NRL debut in 2021, winning the Dally M Rookie of the Year award this season.

He was particularly valued for his short kicking game and was highlighted as a future Queensland State player after being included in camps in recent seasons.

News of Walker’s re-signing comes days after the Roosters made a surprise call to give another of their star players, prop Terrell May, permission to negotiate with rival clubs.

Jared Werea-Hargreaves, Joey Manu, Joseph-Aukuso Suaali and Luke Keary are among the key Roosters players who have already left the club following the preliminary final defeat to Melbourne.

Captain James Tedesco heads the list of Roosters players out of contract after 2025, with Brandon Smith and Egan Butcher also entering the final year of their contracts.