Overview

• Daly Cherry-Evans has officially rejected Manly Sea Eagles' two-year, $1.4 million contract extension, confirming his departure at the end of the 2025 season.
• The 36-year-old halfback is considering playing on in 2026, with the Roosters, Dolphins, and Bulldogs emerging as potential suitors for his signature.
• Roosters coach Trent Robinson and Dolphins coach Kristian Woolf have publicly expressed interest, with the Dolphins confirming they have the salary cap space for a lucrative offer.
• Cherry-Evans' decision has reignited criticism of the NRL's player movement system, with Wayne Bennett calling for structured trade windows to prevent mid-season distractions.
• Manly teammates and fans were caught off guard by the announcement, with Jake Trbojevic expressing shock and reflecting on the legacy Cherry-Evans leaves behind.