Brandon Smith’s future with the Sydney Roosters remains uncertain as he approaches the final year of his contract, coinciding with injury recovery from ACL and MCL damage. Speculation regarding his position has intensified, particularly in light of the anticipated recruitment of NSW hooker Reece Robson in 2026, suggesting that Smith’s days with the Roosters may be numbered.
Former Queensland representative Corey Parker has advocated for the Roosters to clarify Smith’s status, especially with reports of interest from the Super League. Parker believes that instead of moving overseas, a positional change might serve Smith better. He suggests transitioning Smith to the back row as a lock, given that he’s less about playmaking and more about ‘ripping and tearing’ through defenders.
Despite these discussions, Smith’s focus has been more on recovery and less on contract negotiations, as he confirmed his early return to pre-season training without the motivation to secure an extension. With Robson’s imminent arrival, the Roosters appear to be positioning themselves to move on from Smith, raising further questions about his role in the team.
Parker warns that the Roosters face a potential crisis if they do not address Smith’s situation promptly. With a significant number of players already sidelined due to injuries and a loss of experienced talent during the off-season, clarity regarding Smith’s future is crucial. If he departs, the club will need to swiftly find a suitable replacement to avoid destabilising the squad further.
Overall, while Smith may have opportunities elsewhere, including the Super League, Parker maintains that staying in the NRL and adapting his play style could be the most beneficial route for him moving forward. As the situation develops, all eyes will be on how the Roosters handle this pivotal decision in the near future.