Fans of the NRL are expressing doubts about the Roosters' chances of winning the premiership in the absence of talented playmaker Sam Walker, who has sustained a possibly season-ending syndesmosis injury. This comes as Walker rejected a $5 million contract extension from the Roosters, opting instead to negotiate a fresh deal after the season concludes.
During a match against the Dolphins, Walker was injured by a tackle from forward Kulikefu Finefeuiaki, which left him clutching his ankle during the Roosters' 26-12 defeat. He had difficulty walking and exited the field while the team struggled against a resilient Dolphins defense.
Coach Trent Robinson suggested the injury might be serious in his post-match remarks, indicating that Walker may require surgery for a high-grade syndesmosis injury. NRL Physio Brien Seeney projected a recovery timeline of six to eight weeks, likely sidelining Walker for the rest of the season.
With the Roosters' star player unavailable, many fans are questioning their ability to compete for the championship. Walker has been exceptional this season, even earning a spot in the State of Origin in 2026.
The Roosters initially appeared on track for a Top 2 finish this season; however, consecutive losses to the Wests Tigers and the Dolphins have complicated their standings. They will face the strong Rabbitohs next week, with a loss potentially dropping them to fourth place and setting them up against either the Panthers or the Warriors in the finals. If the Sharks win their upcoming two matches and the Roosters lose, there is a chance they could fall out of the Top 4 entirely.
On 2GB's The Continuous Call Team, NRL legend Daryl Brohman voiced concerns about the Roosters' future without Walker, stating, "If he isn't available come semi-final time, they are in big trouble." Fans are echoing these sentiments, believing the team may struggle down the stretch without their key playmaker.
Walker's contract expires at the end of 2027, and he is expected to enter the open market on November 1 after postponing contract discussions. Despite the Roosters offering a lucrative four-year extension, valued at around $5 million, Walker has yet to agree.
He may be biding his time, hoping for a deep playoff run to leverage a better offer from the Roosters. Earlier this month, Robinson noted that he was comfortable with Walker delaying negotiations until after the finals, saying, "the vision for the future with Sammy is really clear… I've got no issue with him waiting until October… which from a coach's point of view, how good?" The Roosters and Walker are now hoping for a speedy recovery so he can return when the team needs him the most.
