LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
The South Sydney Rabbitohs are preparing to initiate discussions to retain their young playmaker, Ashton Ward, as they head into the 2026 NRL season. Currently uncontracted for the upcoming year, Ward was not among the nine players farewellled by the club during their end-of-season presentation, indicating their interest in keeping him.
Negotiations for a new deal between Ward and the Rabbitohs are expected to commence soon. However, it remains uncertain whether this will result in a Top 30 contract, a development deal, a NSW Cup agreement, or a train and trial arrangement.
Ward, a junior from the Gerringong Lions, earned recognition as the club's NSW Cup Player of the Year. He made his NRL debut in Round 21 against the Cronulla Sharks, where he demonstrated his potential over six first-grade appearances, surpassing Lewis Dodd in the team's hierarchy. While still anticipated to serve primarily as a back-up as he continues his development, Ward recorded impressive statistics: 317 running metres, one try assist, one line-break assist, and a total of 22 points during his matches.
This year, Ward also gained attention from Queensland coach Billy Slater, who expressed confidence in Ward's abilities. Slater stated, "without a doubt" Ward could provide a long-term solution to the Rabbitohs' halfback challenges that arose following Adam Reynolds' departure.
During an August appearance on The Billy Slater podcast, Slater recalled: "I was actually sitting next to Andrew Johns calling the game, and you could tell how excited Joey was getting when he was doing these things." This endorsement from a respected figure in the sport highlights Ward's promising future.