‘This club feels like home’: Roosters fend off rivals as Sam Walker extends his deal with the club

Sam Walker has shunned interest from elsewhere to extend his stay at the Roosters until the end of the 2027 season in a huge boost for the club that has lost several superstars from the team that made this year’s preliminary final.

Walker’s new two-year deal takes him off the open market, with Queensland clubs reportedly willing to break the bank to lure him back home.

The 22-year-old will miss a chunk of the 2025 season after he tore his ACL against the Raiders on the eve of the finals, but the club was always keen to re-sign him given there are few playmakers like him in the game.

Walker had a career-high 23 try assists last season and has the ability to bamboozle defences with his unscripted style of play that includes one of the best short kicking games in the NRL.

“I’m really happy to be extending with the Roosters. This club feels like home and I’m grateful for the support of ‘Robbo’ (coach Trent Robinson), my teammates and all the staff,” the halfback said.

“I’m looking forward to getting back to training later this month so I can keep working hard on my rehab and play my role for the team.”

Walker will take on even more responsibilities when he returns next year, with halves partner Luke Keary no longer at the club.

Walker is coming off his best season having been dropped to reserve grade in 2023, with his best years still to come as he gets more and more comfortable leading the team.

“Sam’s dedication to improving his game and his commitment to the team is a reflection of the terrific person he is on and off the footy field,” Roosters director of football Mitchell Aubusson said.

“He is a much-loved member of our club for the player and person he is, and an important part of our long-term plans, so it’s great that he will continue to represent the Roosters well into the future.”