Jeremiah Nanai, a key player for the North Queensland Cowboys, is poised to test the open market for player contracts starting November 1.
This development is significant for the Cowboys, as they risk losing one of the sport's top-tier second-rowers, especially noted for his offensive skills.
While defensive capabilities have raised some concerns around Nanai, his offensive prowess is undisputed, particularly regarding his running game and aerial ability.
His capacity to score and generate scoring opportunities makes him an asset that opposing teams will definitely covet.
In the current climate of rugby league, where scoring is paramount, this trend extends to second-rowers, who increasingly need to be offensive threats.
Players who excel at scoring, like Hudson Young and Haumole Olakau'atu, have set the standard, reshaping expectations for their positions.
This evolution positions Nanai as an attractive target on the market, and given the anticipated increase in salary caps, he could command a contract upwards of seven figures.
Even with some reservations about his defense, it's unlikely his salary would fall significantly below that threshold.
Should Nanai decide to leave the Cowboys, several clubs are expected to compete for his signature when the 2028 season begins.