Raiders Withdraw Record Offer as Hudson Young Eyes PNG Move
Canberra coach Ricky Stuart confirms the club pulled its historic contract offer for Young.
1Record Contract Offer Withdrawn
The Canberra Raiders have officially withdrawn their four-year, $4.4 million contract offer to star back-rower Hudson Young. Coach Ricky Stuart described the deal as the most generous in the club's history. Despite the record-breaking financial package, the 28-year-old international player declined the terms to explore opportunities with the upcoming Papua New Guinea franchise.
2Financial Motivation for Move
Hudson Young is reportedly considering a move to the PNG Chiefs, an expansion club set to enter the league in 2028. The potential deal offers a $900,000 annual salary, which is highly attractive due to its tax-free status in Papua New Guinea. This financial structure allows for significantly higher take-home pay than the Raiders' offer.
3Salary Cap Regulatory Challenges
The NRL has established Young's official market value at $1 million, down from a previous estimate of $1.1 million. ARLC chairman Peter V'landys emphasized that the league must remain cautious regarding tax-free status in PNG. Officials are working to ensure that salary cap regulations are not manipulated through these unique international tax arrangements.
4Coach Stuart's Personal Stance
Ricky Stuart admitted that while he understands the business side of professional sports, he takes player departures personally. He stated that the Raiders bent over backwards to retain Young, but the club had to prioritize its own financial health. Stuart believes the current offer was already at the absolute limit of sustainability.
5Criticism of Signing Rules
Stuart expressed strong frustration with current NRL regulations that allow players to sign with new clubs 12 months in advance. He argued that this process creates unnecessary instability and is unfair to loyal fans. The coach believes the current system makes the competition messy and complicates long-term roster planning for all teams.
6Young's Career at Canberra
Hudson Young made his NRL debut with the Canberra Raiders in 2019 and has since played 155 matches for the club. A six-time Kangaroo international, he has been a central figure for the team. Currently, he is recovering from an Achilles rupture sustained during a match against the South Sydney Rabbitohs in July.
7Potential Early Contract Release
There is speculation regarding whether Young will seek an early release from his contract for the 2027 season. Because the PNG Chiefs do not join the competition until 2028, any early departure remains subject to negotiation. Stuart noted that such decisions are entirely up to the player's management team moving forward.
8Moving Forward Without Young
Following the withdrawal of the offer, the Raiders are now focused on moving forward and restructuring their roster. Stuart emphasized that the club has done everything possible to keep the player, but they must now accept the decision. The organization is shifting its attention toward future recruitment and maintaining team stability.