Bulldogs Confirm Departures of Ten Players: Two Remain Unsigned
The 2025 National Rugby League (NRL) season is fast approaching, and as clubs across the competition make their final preparations, the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs have confirmed a significant shake-up to their roster. The club has officially announced the departures of ten players, signaling a shift in strategy and player development for the coming season. While some of the exits were anticipated, others have come as a surprise, leaving fans and analysts questioning the long-term direction of the team.
Two of these ten players, however, remain unsigned, their futures uncertain as they navigate the open market in search of new opportunities. In this article, we will delve into the details surrounding these departures, the potential impact on the Bulldogs’ roster, and the uncertain futures of the two remaining unsigned players.
A Season of Change for the Bulldogs
The Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs have long been a club with a rich history in the NRL, with a strong fanbase and a tradition of developing tough, competitive players. However, the 2024 season proved to be another challenging one for the Bulldogs. While they showed flashes of potential, inconsistency and injury problems plagued their campaign. As the Bulldogs look to rebuild and challenge for a place in the finals once again, it appears that major roster changes are necessary.
The departures of these ten players come as part of a broader strategic overhaul by the Bulldogs’ management. Club officials have made it clear that the goal is to bring in fresh talent and reshape the team in a way that will give them the best chance of success in the future. With the NRL’s salary cap constraints and the competitive nature of the league, it’s a decision that has been made with a long-term vision in mind.
Who Are the Ten Players Departing?
The Bulldogs’ official announcement included a list of ten players who will not be returning for the 2025 season. Among them are several veteran players who have been key figures in the team’s recent seasons, as well as younger talents who have failed to live up to expectations. Let’s take a closer look at each of the ten players who will be leaving the club.
1. Dylan Napa (Prop)
A stalwart in the Bulldogs’ forward pack, Dylan Napa has been a physical presence on the field since joining the club in 2019. Known for his aggressive style of play and no-nonsense approach to defense, Napa has been one of the Bulldogs’ most experienced players. However, with the team looking to go in a different direction, Napa’s departure was inevitable. His move away from the club could open the door for younger forwards to take on more prominent roles in the coming season.
2. Aidan Tolman (Prop)
A long-serving player at the Bulldogs, Aidan Tolman has been with the club for almost a decade. Throughout his time in Canterbury, he has been known for his tireless work ethic, strong defensive game, and leadership in the forward pack. However, the 2024 season saw Tolman struggle with consistency, and at 34 years of age, it seems that the Bulldogs are opting for a more youthful and dynamic approach in their forward pack moving forward.
3. Will Hopoate (Fullback)
A versatile back who has played several positions for the Bulldogs over the years, including fullback, center, and winger, Will Hopoate has been a reliable performer. However, his time at the club has been marred by injury and inconsistency, and it seems the Bulldogs are keen to refresh their backline. Hopoate, at 30 years old, will be seeking a new challenge for the 2025 season, though he has made it clear that his love for the game remains strong.
4. Jack Hetherington (Prop)
A player known for his aggressive, hard-hitting style of play, Jack Hetherington has often been at the center of controversy during his time with the Bulldogs. While he brings energy and physicality to the forward pack, his disciplinary issues have raised questions about his long-term future at the club. The decision to part ways with Hetherington signals the Bulldogs’ desire to bring in players who can offer more consistency on and off the field.
5. Nick Meaney (Fullback/Wing)
Nick Meaney, who has primarily been used as a fullback or winger, has been a solid performer for the Bulldogs over the past few seasons. While he has shown flashes of brilliance, he has struggled to cement a permanent place in the starting lineup. Meaney will be hoping for a fresh start at another NRL club, and given his versatility, it’s expected that there will be significant interest in his services.
6. Corey Allan (Fullback)
A player who has spent time at both the Bulldogs and the South Sydney Rabbitohs, Corey Allan has failed to find a permanent spot in the Bulldogs’ backline. With the rise of younger talent in the squad and a desire for fresh faces, Allan’s departure is not entirely surprising. He will be looking for a new club where he can get more game time and further develop his skills.
7. Jayden Okunbor (Wing)
Jayden Okunbor, a towering winger with a lot of potential, has been a part of the Bulldogs for several years. While he has shown glimpses of his capabilities, particularly in terms of his powerful running and try-scoring ability, he has struggled to maintain consistent form. The Bulldogs have opted to move in a different direction with their outside backs, and Okunbor will now be seeking a new opportunity elsewhere.
8. Kieran Foran (Five-Eighth)
Kieran Foran has been a veteran presence in the NRL for over a decade and has been one of the Bulldogs’ more experienced and dependable playmakers. However, Foran has also faced injury struggles in recent seasons, and with the emergence of younger talent at the Bulldogs, it seems the club has decided to part ways. Foran may have a few years left in him, and he will likely be in demand from clubs looking for a veteran playmaker to add to their squad.
9. Brayden Burns (Center)
Brayden Burns has been a steady performer for the Bulldogs, but like many others, he has struggled to carve out a permanent spot in the starting lineup. With younger, more dynamic centers coming through the ranks, Burns’ departure appears to be part of the Bulldogs’ shift towards a new era. Burns will no doubt attract interest from other clubs, particularly those looking for depth in their outside backs.
10. Reimis Smith (Center)
Reimis Smith’s departure from the Bulldogs comes as something of a surprise, as he has been one of the more consistent performers in the backline. A tough, hard-running center, Smith’s defense and ability to break through the line have made him a valuable asset for the Bulldogs. However, the club has decided to part ways with him in order to free up space for new signings and younger players who can bring a different dynamic to the team.
The Two Ununsigned Players: Uncertainty Looms
With ten departures confirmed, the futures of two players remain unclear. Both Jake Averillo and Joe Ofahengaue have yet to sign with another club, leaving their futures in limbo.
Jake Averillo (Halfback/Centre)
Jake Averillo is a promising young talent who has played both as a halfback and center for the Bulldogs. While his performances have shown potential, Averillo has yet to fully establish himself as a regular starting player. His ability to play in multiple positions means that he will likely attract interest from several clubs looking for versatility. The uncertainty surrounding his future is largely due to his mixed performances in the past seasons, and it remains to be seen if he can find a new home before the season begins.
Joe Ofahengaue (Back-row)
Joe Ofahengaue is a tough and hardworking back-rower who has proven to be a consistent contributor to the Bulldogs’ forward pack. Despite this, his future remains uncertain as the club looks to refresh its roster. The lack of contract offers has left fans speculating about whether Ofahengaue’s playing style is what the Bulldogs need moving forward. Regardless, his quality and experience should make him an appealing option for other clubs seeking depth in their forward packs.
Looking Ahead: A New Chapter for the Bulldogs
With the departures of ten players and the uncertainty surrounding the futures of two others, the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs are entering a period of transition. The decisions made in the coming months will have a significant impact on the club’s ability to return to finals contention in the near future.
For now, Bulldogs fans are left to reflect on the departures of some familiar faces while remaining hopeful that the new recruits and emerging players will help guide the team to better fortunes in the 2025 NRL season. The NRL’s player market is always fluid, and with the Bulldogs making significant changes, the stage is set for an exciting new chapter in the club’s storied history.
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