Cowboys Star Lands at Top of Roosters’ No.9 Hit List; Paps’ Big Contract Reveal

 

As the NRL’s free agency period heats up, two of the biggest stories dominating the headlines involve the Sydney Roosters’ pursuit of a premier hooker and Ryan Papenhuyzen’s massive contract extension with the Melbourne Storm. The rumor mill is buzzing as teams prepare for a new chapter, and at the center of it all is a Cowboys star who has emerged as the Roosters’ top target for the No.9 jersey.

### Cowboys’ Hooker on Roosters’ Radar

In a bold move that could shake up the NRL landscape, the Sydney Roosters are reportedly eyeing a major acquisition as they look to bolster their spine. According to multiple sources, North Queensland Cowboys’ star hooker **Reuben Cotter** has shot to the top of the Roosters’ wish list as they look to fill their No.9 position for the 2024 season and beyond.

Cotter, known for his tireless work ethic and explosive impact in both attack and defense, has been a standout for the Cowboys since breaking into the first-grade team. His relentless running game, exceptional passing skills, and ability to control the tempo of a match have made him one of the most sought-after players in the league. The Roosters, who have long been one of the NRL’s powerhouses, are in need of a hooker capable of steering their attack, and Cotter fits the bill perfectly.

With the departure of veteran hooker **Jake Friend** in 2021, the Roosters have been seeking a long-term solution at the position. Cotter’s combination of leadership, agility, and grit has made him the ideal candidate to fill that void. The Roosters are reportedly prepared to offer Cotter a lucrative deal that would make him one of the highest-paid players in the NRL, but whether the Cowboys can retain their prized hooker remains to be seen.

The Roosters’ interest in Cotter has set off a chain reaction of speculation, with many experts predicting that his decision could impact the futures of other key players in both the Cowboys and Roosters camps. However, with Cotter still under contract with North Queensland for the foreseeable future, it remains to be seen whether the Roosters will be able to convince him to make the move to Bondi.

### Papenhuyzen Secures Massive Contract Extension with Storm

In other news, **Ryan Papenhuyzen** has made waves with a big contract extension announcement, committing his future to the Melbourne Storm for several more years. Papenhuyzen, one of the NRL’s most electrifying players, has inked a new deal with the Storm that will see him remain in Melbourne until 2027. The contract is reportedly worth over $4 million, making it one of the most lucrative deals in the NRL.

Papenhuyzen’s new deal comes on the back of a stellar season where he returned to his best form after a lengthy injury layoff. Known for his blistering pace, dazzling footwork, and game-changing plays, Papenhuyzen is one of the NRL’s most exciting fullbacks and has been instrumental in Melbourne’s success over the past few years.

The extension is a major win for the Storm, who will retain their star playmaker and leader for the foreseeable future. With Papenhuyzen at the helm, the Storm remain one of the league’s most consistent teams, and his presence ensures the club can continue to compete for championships.

### What This Means for Free Agency

The signing of Papenhuyzen to a long-term deal and the Roosters’ pursuit of Cotter are just two of the many storylines emerging during this free agency period. With the 2024 season fast approaching, clubs are scrambling to shore up their rosters, making every move in free agency all the more crucial.

For the Roosters, the recruitment of Cotter would be a massive coup, as it would not only fill a key position but also add a young, dynamic player to their already star-studded roster. Meanwhile, the Storm’s ability to lock in Papenhuyzen shows their commitment to maintaining their status as one of the top teams in the competition. His extension is a clear signal that the Storm’s era of dominance is far from over.

As we move further into the free agency period, expect more big moves, contract extensions, and player signings to emerge. The Roosters and Storm are two teams that will continue to make headlines, and the race to land the best players in the market is sure to create plenty of drama in the coming weeks. For now, though, it’s clear that Reuben Cotter and Ryan Papenhuyzen will be key figures in shaping the future of the NRL.