The South Sydney Rabbitohs are set to enter contract negotiations with emerging playmaker Ashton Ward, as they aim to secure the services of the talented halfback ahead of the 2026 NRL season.
The 21-year-old was notably absent from the list of nine players farewelled at the club’s end-of-season presentation night, despite currently being without a contract for next year.
That could be about to change, with Zero Tackle reporting that the Rabbitohs are keen to hold on to the former St George Illawarra Dragons junior—who is said to be just as eager to keep wearing the red and green.
Formal discussions over a new deal are expected shortly, although it remains uncertain whether Ward will be offered a Top 30, development, NSW Cup, or train-and-trial contract.
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The young playmaker made his NRL debut in Round 21 against the Cronulla Sharks, going on to make six impressive first-grade appearances and winning three of those matches.
Ward leapfrogged Lewis Dodd in the halfback pecking order, finishing the season with 317 running metres, one try assist, one line-break assist, and 22 points, showcasing his composure and attacking flair.
While he is expected to continue in a backup role behind Cody Walker and Jamie Humphreys as he further develops, his potential has already caught the eye of some of rugby league’s biggest names.
Speaking on The Billy Slater Podcast, Queensland coach Billy Slater singled out Ward as a potential long-term solution to the Rabbitohs’ halfback issues following Adam Reynolds’ departure.
“I was actually sitting next to Andrew Johns calling the game, and you could tell how excited Joey was getting when he was doing these things,” Slater stated
“Nothing was happening outside it, but he was actually creating some opportunities through the straightness and directness of his play.
“He's only a really small guy. He's got plenty of development left in him.”