LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
In a huge blow for the St George Illawarra Dragons, they have missed out on signing both Tom Dearden and Addin Fonua-Blake in a busy day of NRL signing news.
The North Queensland Cowboys announced that Dearden had re-signed with them on a lengthy five-year contract, while the Cronulla Sharks secured Fonua-Blake on a four-year deal starting in 2025.
The Dragons had been thought to be leading the race for Fonua-Blake, who was seeking a release from the Warriors to be closer to family in Sydney.
However, the Sharks swooped in and signed him, leaving the Dragons disappointed.
Sharks coach Craig Fitzgibbon spoke highly of Fonua-Blake, highlighting his impressive performances in recent seasons and expressing excitement about his future with the team.
Dragons coach Shane Flanagan had previously expressed his eagerness to sign Fonua-Blake and believed he would be a significant addition to the team.
In another blow for the Dragons, Dearden chose to reject offers from other NRL clubs and extended his contract with the Cowboys for another five years.
Flanagan had been leading the charge in pursuing Dearden, but was unable to secure his signature.