The Melbourne Storm announced during their last match of 2026 that six players will be leaving the club, while there is a chance for two others to be re-signed.
In their Thursday night match against the Penrith Panthers, a graphic on the big screen revealed that Shawn Blore (Brisbane Broncos), Nick Meaney (Perth Bears), Davvy Moale (Manly Sea Eagles), Will Warbrick (New Zealand Warriors), Tyran Wishart (Perth Bears), and the recently announced Tui Kamikamica, who is facing medical retirement, will depart.
Additionally, Lazarus Vaalepu left earlier in the year to join the English Super League.
This season, the club has also successfully re-signed several young talents, including Jai Bowden, Cooper Clarke, Gabriel Satrick, and Hayden Watson, as well as captain and Queensland Maroons hooker Harry Grant.
Currently, the main uncertainty for Melbourne involves players Jack Hetherington and Trent Toelau.
Both are off-contract at the end of 2026 and were not listed among the departing players during the final home match, meaning contract extensions could still be possible for them.
The situation surrounding these fringe first-grade players adds an interesting dynamic as Craig Bellamy gears up for what is likely his final season as head coach before retiring.
For the 2027 season, Melbourne has confirmed the signings of Jamayne Isaako, Kelma Tuilagi, and Bronson Xerri, while there is hope that Eliesa Katoa will make a comeback after missing the entire 2026 season due to a serious head injury sustained while representing Tonga in the 2025 Pacific Championships.