The Canberra Raiders are taking proactive steps to secure a group of key players before they enter free agency on November 1 this year.
With Josh Papali'i's anticipated exit at the end of the season, the team is eager to maintain a strong future in the capital.
This effort includes extending contracts for Ethan Sanders, Sebastian Kris, Xavier Savage, and Joe Roddy, as reported by the Canberra Times, which indicates that negotiations have commenced to solidify these players' futures.
Additionally, Hudson Young is set to enter free agency at the end of 2027 and will be open to negotiations with NRL competitors in November unless he is re-signed beforehand. Still, talks with the NSW Blues representative are reportedly going well, with hopes for a two- to three-year extension in place.
Sanders is keen to extend his tenure with the Raiders; despite a mixed start in his maiden season, he has displayed enough potential to warrant a long-term spot. As the former Eel steps in for Jamal Fogarty, who has transferred to the Manly Sea Eagles, their performance statistics indicate they are comparable.
While Sanders has recorded two tries, Fogarty has four and has forced six goal-line drop-outs to Fogarty's seven. Their kicking accuracy is closely matched, with Sanders at 76 percent and Fogarty at 78.
At just 22 years old, Sanders has a promising future in the NRL, making him a valuable re-signing opportunity.
Meanwhile, the outside backs Kris and Savage remain in the Raiders' plans. Although their performance this season has not mirrored their breakout in 2025, they bring significant potential and excitement to the team.
The club is also reportedly focused on retaining Roddy, who is currently recovering from a broken hand after making his NRL debut in Round 27 last year, showing promise in his four appearances in Raiders colours.