Melbourne forward Joe Chan is set to move to North Queensland in 2027 after receiving an early release from the Storm. Originally under contract until the end of the 2028 season, Chan has been allowed to leave early, resulting in a two-year deal with Todd Payten's Cowboys.
Chan started this season on a high note, securing a starting back-row position due to Eli Katoa's absence from brain surgery. However, his performance declined, leading to a loss of his starting edge role as coach Craig Bellamy leaned towards Shawn Blore, Ativalu Lisati, and later Oryn Keeley following his mid-season transfer from the Dolphins.
Keeley's outstanding play will help mitigate the impact of Blore's move to Brisbane next season. The former Dolphins player might team up with Katoa, who has been cleared to resume wrestling and tackling training after missing the entire 2026 season.
Additionally, Eels back-rower Kelma Tuilagi is expected to join the squad in 2027, and Bellamy holds high hopes for young forward Cooper Clarke, who has played regularly on the edge for Melbourne this year.
The Storm have secured outside backs Bronson Xerri from the Bulldogs and Jamayne Isaako from the Dolphins for 2027, while several players, including Nick Meaney and Tyran Wishart from the Perth Bears, Davvy Moale from the Sea Eagles, and Will Warbrick from the Warriors, are leaving at the end of the season.
With these changes, Chan has become surplus to requirements for Bellamy in 2027. The 24-year-old has played 47 games for Melbourne since his NRL debut in 2023, demonstrating his versatility by stepping in at centre multiple times this season.
Storm director of football Frank Ponissi expressed best wishes for Chan after confirming his departure on Monday. "Joey has been a valuable member of the NRL squad over the past four years and has worked hard for his opportunities. He's a versatile player who has played his role for the team on numerous occasions," he stated. "We're thankful for Joey's contribution to Storm and wish him the best with his move to Townsville."
The Cowboys believe Chan will enhance their forward pack next season. "Joe is a bigger body, he's athletic and can play both edge and middle, which gives us something a little different to what we currently have in the forward pack," said Cowboys recruitment manager Clint Zammit. "He is coming out of a strong system and has already gained valuable experience... We believe Joe is a great fit for the Cowboys and the style of football. At 24, we have no doubt his best football is still ahead of him, and we are really looking forward to having Joe join the club and seeing him continue to develop and reach his potential."