LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
The Melbourne Storm are poised to announce a contract extension for Jahrome Hughes, which could lead to the potential departure of Jonah Pezet from the club.
According to reports from zerotackle.com, Hughes is among several players whose contracts expire at the end of 2027 and are currently in negotiations with the Storm, amid ongoing efforts to manage the team's salary cap.
In addition to Hughes, other key players such as Harry Grant, Xavier Coates, and Ryan Papenhuyzen are also discussing contract extensions to remain with the team past next season.
They are part of a group that includes Tyran Wishart, Nick Meaney, Moses Leo, and Shawn Blore, who have contracts expiring at the end of 2026.
If these players are not re-signed, they will be eligible to negotiate with rival teams, including the Perth Bears, beginning November 1.
Hughes is expected to sign a lucrative long-term deal that would secure his position as the Storm's primary halfback, with sources indicating that the agreement is nearly finalized.
This new deal could complicate the future for Jonah Pezet and possibly for Cameron Munster as well.