Canberra Raiders head coach Ricky Stuart has shed light on the contract situations surrounding veteran forward Josh Papalii and promising young gun Trey Mooney, while also confirming the club’s intent to secure two more of their key players amid a crucial period of roster planning.
In a candid update during media duties this week, Stuart provided clarity on where things stand with Papalii and Mooney — two players at very different stages of their careers — and how their futures tie into the Raiders’ long-term strategy. While the club has faced speculation in recent weeks about potential roster shakeups, Stuart’s comments indicate that stability, development, and forward planning remain at the heart of Canberra’s approach.
Papalii Nearing Contract Call
Josh Papalii, one of the most respected figures in the Raiders’ dressing room and a long-serving leader, is believed to be weighing up his future as the end of his current contract draws near. At 32, Papalii remains a force in the middle third of the field, though injury and form fluctuations have sparked discussions about how much longer he’ll remain in green.
Stuart was measured in his comments but suggested that any decision about Papalii’s next move would be a mutual one, shaped by open conversations between the club and the player.
“Josh is a massive part of our club — he always has been. Whatever decision is made, it’ll be made with respect and with the best interests of both parties in mind,” Stuart said. “He’s earned that. No one questions what he’s done for this team.”
The Raiders are reportedly open to Papalii continuing in 2026 if he chooses to play on, but are also aware of the need to plan for the next generation of forwards coming through the system.
Mooney’s Future Being Finalised
On the other end of the spectrum is Trey Mooney — the talented young forward who has shown promise when given opportunities at NRL level. Mooney is currently in discussions with the Raiders over a contract extension, with the club keen to secure his services before rival clubs come knocking.
“Trey’s a really important part of our future,” Stuart said. “He’s developing really well and we want to make sure he’s here for the long haul. He loves the club, and we’re working hard to get it sorted.”
Mooney, 23, is seen as a key piece in Canberra’s forward pack moving forward, and the club is hopeful that negotiations will wrap up in the coming weeks.
Raiders Also Looking to Extend Two More
While all eyes have been on Papalii and Mooney, the Raiders are also reportedly in advanced talks with two more rising stars in their squad. While Stuart didn’t name names, sources close to the club suggest that outside back Albert Hopoate and forward Ata Mariota are both being lined up for multi-year extensions.
Both players have stepped up in 2025 and are seen as critical to the club’s continued evolution. With the NRL player market always active and unpredictable, Canberra is making a conscious effort to lock in key talent before rival clubs can make moves.
Long-Term Vision at the Core
For Stuart, the focus is on building a squad that can compete not just this year but into the future. Balancing the experience of veterans like Papalii with the hunger and potential of young stars like Mooney, Mariota, and Hopoate is central to that vision.
“We’re building something here,” Stuart said. “It’s about more than just this season — it’s about setting us up for long-term success. That means making the right calls now.”
With contract talks heating up and key roster decisions looming, the next few weeks could be pivotal for the Raiders as they shape the core of their squad heading into 2026 and beyond.