LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
After a disappointing end to their season, falling short of a preliminary finals place despite finishing first in 2025, the Canberra Raiders are keen to apply the lessons they've learned moving into 2026.
As they aim to maintain their impressive regular-season performance next year, they face a significant challenge: their star halfback, Jamal Fogarty, is departing to join the Manly Sea Eagles.
This departure leaves the key No. 7 position open, and while young talent Ethan Sanders has been seen as a likely candidate to step in for Fogarty, latest reports suggest that the Raiders are considering an external addition for their halfback role.
Melbourne Storm's promising star Jonah Pezet has emerged as an ideal option to fill the void left by Fogarty, as he looks to make a move from Victoria after Jahrome Hughes recently re-signed with the Storm.
Pezet is under contract until 2029, yet he has been given the green light to seek other opportunities due to a crowded situation at the halfback position. This could even include a temporary loan arrangement for just one season.
Although Pezet has been rumored to be on the radar of the Gold Coast Titans, the Canberra Times has indicated that the Raiders are also interested in acquiring the services of the 22-year-old.
The nature of any potential transfer for Pezet remains uncertain-whether it would be temporary or permanent-especially with the Perth Bears set to enter the league in 2027, presenting further possibilities for the young halfback.