The Ipswich Jets remain firmly in contention to become the NRL's 20th franchise in 2029, with a decision from Peter V'landys and colleagues possible as early as Christmas.
Former Queensland representative Corey Parker suggested that Sam Walker could seek contract clauses allowing him to join the Jets as a marquee player.
The Ipswich-raised halfback's future is uncertain after the Sydney Roosters publicly indicated they would release him, and several clubs have been floated as potential destinations.
"There's only a limited number of NRL clubs who can take him next year given it's so late in the piece," Parker said on SEN radio.
He questioned whether Walker would remain with the Roosters in 2027.
"You'd be a brave man to say he's going to see out the year (2027) at the Roosters, particularly when they've come out publicly and said they'd let him go right now," Parker said.
"It's going to be awkward, right?" he added.
"He'd have to go and play with the team that's essentially pulled the deal from him, I just don't see him playing for the Roosters next year."
Parker also raised a move to rugby, including the possibility of Walker targeting the 2027 Rugby World Cup, though he said a Wallabies selection appeared virtually impossible.
Perth Bears, the PNG Chiefs, North Queensland Cowboys and Brisbane Broncos have been mentioned as NRL options, potentially alongside clauses allowing Walker to join Ipswich if its franchise bid succeeds.