After a successful debut season as head coach, Sam Burgess will aim to elevate the Warrington Wolves further in 2025 by leading them to a major trophy.
Initially, 2025 was set to be the final year of Burgess’ two-season contract with the club. However, Warrington acted decisively by securing an extension, delaying any potential return for the England legend to the NRL.
Despite the contract extension, Burgess and the Wolves face significant challenges in managing their player roster. Eight of the first-team squad for 2025 will be in the final year of their contracts, making it a pivotal time for negotiations.
This is particularly important due to new rules allowing clubs to approach players in the final year of their deals starting December 1. In just a few weeks, some of Warrington’s key players will become available on the open market.
Top priorities for the Wolves will include retaining first-choice center pairing Toby King and Rodrick Tai, both of whom had standout performances in 2024 under Burgess. Another focus will be on overseas talent Paul Vaughan, who enters the final year of his three-year contract. If Vaughan wishes to stay, Warrington is likely to move quickly to secure him.
Zane Musgrove, another international forward, and versatile player Jordan Crowther are also nearing the end of their contracts, along with back Connor Wrench. Additionally, club stalwart Stefan Ratchford may face his final year with Warrington, as his one-year extension leaves his future beyond 2025 uncertain.
Looking ahead to 2026, major players such as George Williams, James Harrison, Danny Walker, and Luke Yates will also require contract attention, ensuring that roster management will remain a long-term focus for the Wolves.
Here’s an overview of Warrington’s contract landscape:
Off-contract in 2025
- Toby King
- Rodrick Tai
- Paul Vaughan
- Sam Powell
- Zane Musgrove
- Jordan Crowther
- Stefan Ratchford
- Connor Wrench
Off-contract in 2026
- Matt Dufty
- Josh Thewlis
- George Williams
- James Harrison (option for 2027)
- Danny Walker
- Ben Currie
- Lachlan Fitzgibbon
- Luke Yates
- Joe Philbin
- Oli Leyland
- Tom Whitehead (option for 2027)
- Dan Russell
Off-contract in 2027
- Leon Hayes
- Adam Holroyd
- Max Wood (option for 2028)
- Cai Taylor-Wray (option for 2028)
- Dan Okoro
- Arron Lindop
Off-contract in 2028
- Matty Ashton
