Canterbury has resolved months of speculation regarding Jacob Preston's future, securing the talented second-rower with a contract extension through to the end of 2031.
After uncertainty surrounded his next agreement, the Bulldogs announced on Tuesday evening that the esteemed edge forward had signed a new four-year deal.
This announcement follows a recent situation where Bulldogs coach Cameron Ciraldo addressed rumors about the club being "disrespectful" in their contract offers to the backrower.
Preston is now among only two Bulldogs players, alongside captain Stephen Crichton, who are committed until the end of 2031.
"I'm so happy to have locked in my long-term future at the club," Preston stated.
"The Bulldogs are home to me and I've built lifelong friendships here.
"I know the club is building something special and I'm stoked that I get to continue being a part of that journey."
If Preston had entered the market on November 1, he would have joined a group of prominent second-rowers available to clubs.
As a North Sydney junior, he was anticipated to generate significant interest, particularly as he has been in contention for NSW State of Origin selection in recent years.
His partnership with Lachlan Galvin on the right edge has been a vital asset in the Bulldogs' offense in 2026, with Preston scoring six tries and making 12 line breaks this year.
With Preston's contract finalized, Matt Burton remains the highest-profile Bulldog set to be off contract at season's end, while prop Max King's deal is also up in 2027.
"Jacob is a special player and an upstanding young man, who typifies what it means to be a Bulldog," Canterbury executive Phil Gould remarked.
"He's the type of person we can build the club around, and we couldn't be happier to lock him in until at least the end of 2031."
Securing Preston clarifies part of the second-row market for 2028.
Liam Martin has paused his negotiations with Penrith until after their finals, with his management describing Tuesday's discussions as "productive."
Canberra has offered Hudson Young a substantial deal, believed to be around $1.1 million annually, although he is likely to explore the market and speak with the PNG Chiefs.
Wests Tigers' Samuela Fainu and North Queensland's Jeremiah Nanai are also expected to become free agents this November.