LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
Penrith's acquisition of young playmaker Keahn Skipps from Canberra may pave the way for Sandon Smith to join the Raiders. Recent reports indicate that Smith is in talks with the Raiders, who have recently seen a decline in their playmaking options.
NRL halfback Jamal Fogarty will be transferring to Manly on a three-year contract, with young prospect Ethan Sanders likely to step into his position. Skipps had also been considered for this role and had captained Canberra's Jersey Flegg (Under-21) squad.
However, it was revealed this week that Skipps has signed a three-year contract with Ivan Cleary at the Panthers. With both Fogarty and Skipps leaving, this could explain the Raiders' interest in Smith.
Smith has been allowed to leave the Roosters a year early if he can finalize a deal with another club. The 22-year-old had a promising start to the 2025 season as a five-eighth for the Roosters but lost his first-grade position when Sam Walker returned from injury.
With Walker and Hugo Savala solidifying their positions in the halves for Trent Robinson's team, the arrival of Daly Cherry-Evans in 2026 further complicates Smith's situation. Additionally, the Roosters have young talent Toby Rodwell emerging in the halves, making Smith somewhat expendable.
"He's been in conversations with the Raiders, the Raiders are looking at some depth," said Michael Chammas on Channel 9 this week. "I don't know if it will play out that way, whether or not he wants to go somewhere and start. Options are limited."
If the Raiders are uncertain about Sanders being ready for the NRL, Smith could be an appealing option for them. Sanders, 21, joined Canberra from the Parramatta Eels this season and comes with high expectations.