South Sydney Rabbitohs star five-eighth Cody Walker is on the cusp of a significant career decision as he enters the final year of his contract. With free agency looming on November 1, Walker is set to be one of the most sought-after names in the NRL market. Rival clubs will be eager to open negotiations with the 34-year-old playmaker, who continues to perform at an elite level despite his advancing age.
Since making his debut in 2016, Walker has notched up 211 first-grade appearances, quickly cementing himself as one of the competition’s premier five-eighths. His journey to NRL stardom was far from conventional, having honed his craft in the NSW Cup and QLD Cup before his Rabbitohs debut. Now, entering the twilight years of his career, Walker’s next move will be highly anticipated by both fans and rival teams alike.
Reports from The Courier Mail suggest that Wayne Bennett, the legendary NRL coach who is set to return to the Rabbitohs, is keen on keeping Walker in the red and green. Bennett is reportedly interested in offering Walker a one-year contract extension, which would secure his services until the end of the 2026 season.
“Cody plays to a very high standard, so I don’t see any reason why he can’t continue,” Bennett told the publication. “It won’t continue forever, I know that, but Cameron Smith showed us all you can play NRL at 37 and go well into your 30s. If Cody is enjoying it, it doesn’t have to be his last year.”
Bennett’s faith in Walker is grounded in the veteran’s remarkable fitness and durability. Despite turning 35 next year, Walker has avoided major injuries throughout his career, allowing him to maintain a high level of performance. His professional approach to training and preparation has allowed him to compete at the top level, and Bennett believes that, like NRL greats Cameron Smith and Cliff Lyons, Walker could continue to thrive in the league.
Walker himself has expressed a desire to play deep into his 30s, even hinting that he could surpass the records set by players like Paul Gallen and Cameron Smith. “There are more 300-game players than ever,” Bennett added. “Guys are playing much later in their careers because of the training and high-performance programs. Cody’s body is in good shape, and he is a great professional, so I don’t think next year will be his last year.”
Walker remains one of the competition’s most respected playmakers, having been selected for the NSW Blues in last year’s State of Origin series. While injuries hampered his chances this year, his form remains undeniable. As a five-eighth with vision, creativity, and the ability to control a game, Walker’s experience will be invaluable for any club looking to strengthen its roster.
However, South Sydney won’t have it easy when it comes to retaining their star. Walker is one of ten Rabbitohs players entering free agency on November 1, joining the likes of Alex Johnston, Tyrone Munro, Josh Schuster, and Davvy Moale. With Walker’s future in the balance, rival clubs will be eager to present enticing offers, making him a hot commodity on the market.
For the Rabbitohs, securing Walker for an additional year could prove crucial as they aim to return to the finals in 2025. His leadership, combined with his ability to break open defenses, will be key in shaping the club’s fortunes next season. As the November 1 deadline approaches, all eyes will be on Walker and his next move, as he edges closer to becoming one of the NRL’s oldest active players.
The clock is ticking, and the decision will not only impact Walker’s legacy but also the future of the Rabbitohs as they strive to remain competitive in the NRL.
