Raiders’ Bold Off-Season Overhaul: Prop Talks Intensify, Fullback Deal Looms, Halfback Pursuit Fizzles
As the 2025 NRL season draws to a close, the Canberra Raiders are diving headfirst into a hectic off-season, with coach Ricky Stuart strategizing to strengthen the Green Machine for a stronger 2026 finals push. After a gut-wrenching semi-final loss to the Cronulla Sharks, where the absence of key playmakers like Jamal Fogarty was keenly felt, the club is reshaping its spine and forward pack. Here’s the latest on the Raiders’ recruitment moves.
Rising Prop Ata Mariota Enters Key Contract Discussions
To solidify their forward pack, the Raiders have begun talks with dynamic young prop Ata Mariota to extend his contract beyond 2026. The 23-year-old, who recently changed player agents, has been a standout in the middle, disrupting defenses with his offloads and tireless effort. Club sources suggest a three-year extension could keep Mariota in Canberra until 2029, warding off interest from expansion teams like the Bears and the Gold Coast Titans.
Mariota’s breakout 2025 season has him poised to pair with veteran Josh Papali’i, who signed a one-year extension to 2026 after hitting 319 career games. “Ata’s got that rare blend of strength and nous; locking him in is huge for our future,” a club insider shared. With forwards like Trey Mooney and Pasami Saulo departing, securing Mariota is a clear sign of Stuart’s plan to build a pack that can rival the NRL’s best.
Penrith Utility Nears Deal to Bolster Fullback Role
The Raiders are close to landing a versatile Penrith Panthers utility, eyed as a solution for the fullback position. Though details are scarce, the player’s ability to play No. 1 or on the wings offers flexibility amid doubts about Xavier Savage’s form and Kaeo Weekes’ long-term role, despite his recent extension. The Panthers prospect, known for his speed and ball skills in limited NRL action, could inject flair into a backline that’s been inconsistent in big moments. Fans are thrilled, with one tweeting, “This Panther could light up our attack—2026 is looking spicy!” The move follows recent signings like Dragons’ Sione Finau and Weekes’ extension after his strong 2025.
Halfback Search Stalls: Jonah Pezet Deal Scrapped
In a blow to fans, the Raiders have ended their pursuit of Melbourne Storm halfback Jonah Pezet, pulling out of talks for both loan and permanent deals. The 22-year-old, despite injury setbacks, was a prime target to replace Fogarty, who left for Manly on a big contract. Pezet’s playmaking and kicking had excited scouts, but with Ethan Sanders ready to take the No. 7 role and Adam Cook as a solid backup, the club is backing its current options. “We looked hard, but it wasn’t the right move—timing and medicals didn’t align,” a source said. This leaves Pezet open to rivals like the Titans, while Stuart eyes other playmakers like Toby Sexton or a Super League surprise. Fogarty’s exit, after driving Canberra’s 2025 surge, puts pressure on Sanders to step up.