Sea Eagles Prepare for Another Wave of Departures
The Manly Sea Eagles are reportedly preparing to part ways with two more squad members ahead of the upcoming pre-season, with dummy-half Zach Dockar-Clay and versatile outside back Aaron Schoupp exploring opportunities at rival clubs.
Both players endured limited opportunities in the NRL during the 2026 campaign, prompting uncertainty about their futures at Manly. Their potential departures could create additional room for the club to reshape its roster and strengthen its squad ahead of the next season.
While Dockar-Clay has reportedly attracted interest from the Cronulla Sharks, Schoupp is understood to be in discussions with the North Queensland Cowboys about a possible move.
Dockar-Clay Struggles for First-Grade Opportunities
Dockar-Clay joined Manly on a one-year contract ahead of the 2026 season after spending two years with the Sydney Roosters. The experienced hooker arrived hoping to secure a more consistent role in the NRL but found opportunities difficult to come by throughout the campaign.
The 31-year-old managed just one first-grade appearance for the Sea Eagles this season, despite bringing considerable experience across the NRL and reserve-grade competitions.
Across his career, Dockar-Clay has made 36 NRL appearances and accumulated more than 142 reserve-grade games, demonstrating his longevity and versatility within the professional rugby league system.
Despite his limited first-grade involvement, the hooker delivered a strong campaign in the NSW Cup. His performances were recognised at Manly’s end-of-season awards, where he was named the club’s NSW Cup Best and Fairest.
Cronulla Sharks Linked With Experienced Utility
According to *The Daily Telegraph*, Dockar-Clay has been linked with the Cronulla Sharks for the 2027 season as he considers his next career move.
His versatility could make him an attractive option for a club seeking experienced depth across several positions. Although primarily a dummy-half, Dockar-Clay can also provide cover at lock and in the halves, offering coaching staff additional flexibility when managing injuries and squad rotations.
A potential move to Cronulla would give the veteran an opportunity to pursue a fresh challenge while seeking greater involvement at the highest level.
However, the reported link does not confirm that a contract has been agreed upon, with his future still to be determined.
Aaron Schoupp in Talks With North Queensland
Schoupp is the other Manly player reportedly considering an exit, with the 25-year-old understood to be in discussions with the North Queensland Cowboys.
The centre-turned-second-rower has played 58 NRL games and scored 12 tries throughout his career. However, like Dockar-Clay, he struggled to establish himself in Manly’s first-grade side during 2026, managing just one NRL appearance.
His campaign was significantly affected by a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) suffered in the final match of the 2025 season. The serious knee injury disrupted his progress and presented a major obstacle as he attempted to return to regular first-grade football.
Initially established as a centre, Schoupp has since transitioned into the second row, expanding his positional options and potentially increasing his appeal to clubs seeking versatility among their forwards.
A move to North Queensland could provide an opportunity to rebuild his career and compete for a more consistent role, although the reported discussions have yet to result in a confirmed signing.
Jake Tago Emerges as a Potential Manly Target
Meanwhile, Manly could explore a potential recruitment opportunity involving former Parramatta Eels player Jake Tago.
The 27-year-old has reportedly attracted interest from the Sea Eagles, with a supplementary contract emerging as a possible option.
Tago did not feature in the NRL during the 2026 season, instead making 11 appearances in the NSW Cup. A supplementary deal could provide him with an opportunity to join Manly’s wider squad while working towards a possible first-grade return.
With Dockar-Clay and Schoupp potentially heading elsewhere, the Sea Eagles could face further changes as preparations for the next campaign approach.
The club’s decisions over the coming weeks will help determine how its roster takes shape, while the futures of the two departing candidates and a possible move for Tago remain developments to watch.