Sydney Roosters list FIVE November 1 targets ahead of 2026 season…
As the 2025-season fades and the gaze of the NRL world shifts towards 2026, the Sydney Roosters are positioning themselves for an aggressive rebuild and re-loading phase. With salary-cap space opening up, key contracts expiring and the looming November 1 free-agency window, the club have identified five major targets they believe could help restore their dominance. Here’s a look at that plan.
1. Strengthening the spine: hooker & dummy-half
First on the list is the hooker/dummy-half role. The Roosters recognise that with current candidate Brandon Smith facing injury issues and uncertainty, they must future-proof that position. They have earmarked Reece Robson as a marquee recruit for 2026, having secured his signature on a four-year deal to join the club in 2026. (Sydney Roosters) This move signals their intent to control the middle of the field, evolve possessional play and maintain forward momentum through the ruck.
2. Back-line renewal: finishers & fullback options
With stalwarts ageing and code-switching threats hovering, the Roosters know their back-line needs fresh threat and versatility. One name often discussed is Selwyn Cobbo — a young, electric finisher capable of playing wing, centre or even fullback. One recruitment commentary pointed out his fit and potential value for the Roosters system. (Zero Tackle) The logic is clear: supply runners, create mismatches and prepare for the eventual transition of full-back incumbent James Tedesco, whose long-term future will be under review. (ESPN.com)
3. Forward pack power & depth in the middle third
The Roosters’ recruitment strategy also highlights a need to rebuild grunt in the forwards. With several big names off contract or exploring code switches, the club must add impact runners through the middle. This focus is consistent with reports of the Roosters freeing up roughly A$2.5 million for the 2026 market. (Sports Portal) The aim: re-assert forward dominance, win the collision battle and give the halves/spine more platform.
4. Retaining key youth and up-and-comers
Not all the work is incoming. The Roosters are acutely aware of the risk of losing emerging stars. Players like Siua Wong and Blake Steep have flagged interest from rival codes/clubs, making retention a key “target” in itself. (Sports Portal) By securing the future of their own academy-developed talent, the Roosters aim to balance spend on marquee signings with retention of home-grown energy.
5. Exploiting the “November 1” open market window
Finally, the Roosters are clearly playing the “November 1” free-agency market smart. Every major player aged, expiring contract or open to change becomes a scenario to exploit. Commentary on their strategies list number of “targets” set to hit open market on Nov 1 and the Roosters as major players in that sweep. (Zero Tackle) Their ability to act fast when the market opens could define success.
In summary, the Sydney Roosters’ list of five November 1 targets is not just about flashy signings — it is a blueprint. It addresses the spine (hooker/half/fullback), builds depth (forwards/back-line), retains future talent and strategically uses the open market. The next few months will be crucial: how they leverage cap space, negotiate retention, and act on emerging talent will determine whether the Roosters can re-enter the premiership race in 2026 with genuine momentum.
If you like, I can pull together the full list of names being floated (beyond the top five) and estimated costs for each.
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