LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
The Canterbury Bulldogs have confirmed a long-term deal for utility player Bailey Hayward, solidifying their plans for a reliable dummy-half for the future following Reed Mahoney's expected exit at season's end.
Originally agreeing to a one-year extension until 2026 in March, reports from The Daily Telegraph now indicate that Hayward's contract has been extended further, lasting through the end of the 2028 NRL season.
Hayward, who developed through the Bulldogs' pathways, also had a brief stint at the Sydney Roosters before briefly stepping away from rugby league for three months.
Since his return, he has carved out a reputation as one of the most underrated players at the club, earning respect from teammates for his excellent communication skills on the field.
"I think there were a couple of things going on in life that I sort of thought were more important, but it wasn't long," Hayward previously told Zero Tackle.
"I was only out of the game for three months and I had that itch to come back. That love for the game and fire in the belly brought me back and it's there still."