Sam Walker has essentially ruled out a move to the Brisbane Broncos, revealing he’s close to signing a two-year extension with the Sydney Roosters. Despite growing up in Queensland and once being a Broncos fan, Walker is expected to remain with the Roosters, where he’s contracted until the end of next season. While there were speculations that Walker might replace veteran Broncos halfback Adam Reynolds, the Broncos’ salary cap constraints, particularly with Reece Walsh’s $5 million deal, have complicated any potential move.
Broncos five-eighth Ezra Mam’s recent legal troubles after a car crash have raised the possibility of his contract being terminated, which could free up salary cap space. Although Dragons captain Ben Hunt has been linked as a replacement for Mam, a move for Walker was seen as more logical if the situation with Mam worsened.
Walker is allowed to talk to rival clubs from November 1 about his future beyond 2025, but he’s indicated that an extension with the Roosters is imminent. The 22-year-old is also recovering from a season-ending ACL injury and shoulder surgery, expecting to miss the first half of the 2025 NRL season.
Walker praised outgoing Roosters veteran Jared Waerea-Hargreaves, acknowledging his influence on the team and expressing confidence in younger forwards stepping up in his absence. Despite the challenges ahead, Walker’s future with the Roosters looks set to continue through to 2027.