North Queensland co-captain Tom Dearden has addressed speculation regarding his future, aiming to uplift the club as he looks to return from injury for a potential finals run.
After signing a five-year contract extension at the conclusion of the 2023 season, which lasts until 2029, Dearden's commitment to the Cowboys is evident.
However, recent reports suggested he might leave the club for personal reasons, particularly with his pregnant partner, Millie Over, residing in Sydney.
Dearden had to confront the media to dismiss these claims, which were affecting his personal life.
"There's been a fair bit of speculation getting around at the moment. There's been a lot of suggestions that I wanted to move or leave the club," Dearden stated.
"That's not the case at all. I don't feel like I should have to get up here and explain myself against speculation."
He added, "It's just been a whole lot of nonsense. I've got my private life with a partner who's pregnant and I'd like for that all to be kept private."
Furthermore, he affirmed, "I'm committed to the Cowboys until the end of 2029 and I think it's a bit silly that you have to get up here and speak to a bit of nonsense that's going around."
Dearden also emphasized that he was "not recommitting."