South Sydney expects Cody Walker and Ashton Ward to form its preferred halves combination when the 2027 season begins.
The plan follows Walker's impressive finish to 2026, despite the 36-year-old suffering a calf injury during the Rabbitohs' elimination-final loss to Newcastle.
Walker left the match in the 30th minute on Friday, before the Knights secured victory and ended South Sydney's campaign.
CODE Sports reports that the Rabbitohs will offer Walker a 12-month contract extension.
The former NSW Blues representative made his NRL debut with South Sydney ten years ago and remained among the competition's leading performers this season.
He recorded 26 try assists and 27 line-break assists, repeatedly creating opportunities on the left edge for long-term teammate Alex Johnston.
Campbell Graham and other teammates had publicly supported retaining Walker while he remained unsigned beyond November.
Graham highlighted Walker's value as an on-field coach, built through a decade of experience in major NRL matches.
Walker is understood to be preparing for a coaching position with South Sydney after the 2027 season, joining Wayne Bennett's staff.
That experience could help Ward develop through his early NRL seasons.