Andrew Johns, a rugby league legend, believes that Toby Sexton, currently with the Bulldogs, could become the inaugural halfback for one of the new NRL expansion teams. With 24-year-old Sexton anticipating being sidelined at Belmore due to the acquisition of promising talent Lachlan Galvin, Johns has encouraged Sexton to consider a stint in England’s Super League to hone his skills and maturity before potentially returning to the NRL.
Despite his talent, Sexton has attracted little interest from other clubs, a situation that has left Johns bewildered, as he views the young player as a rare find among available halves. Having observed Sexton’s journey from his time at the Titans to his recent performances at the Bulldogs, Johns expressed confidence in Sexton’s abilities and acknowledged his resurgence in form at his current club.
While there are suggestions that St George Illawarra could benefit from signing Sexton, their existing roster of playmakers complicates matters. As the new Perth Bears prepare to enter the league in 2027 and Papua New Guinea set to follow in 2028, the market for players is becoming increasingly competitive. Johns highlighted that a spell in the Super League could provide Sexton with valuable experience while alleviating pressure from the intense scrutiny present in the NRL.
The Bulldogs aren’t the only ones affected by Galvin’s arrival; veteran hooker Reed Mahoney may also find himself looking for a new club, as the Bulldogs reportedly eye young talent like Tallyn Da Silva, who could enhance their squad further. Johns believes Da Silva could thrive at Canterbury, especially as the young players build a formidable partnership.
As Canberra’s season reaches its climax, it remains bittersweet for players like Sexton and Mahoney who, despite the potential for a premiership, face uncertain futures at the club. With changes on the horizon for the Bulldogs, the next few months will determine where these players find their next opportunities in the league.