Jeremiah Nanai enters free agency period as Cowboys contract talks stall

North Queensland Cowboys back rower Jeremiah Nanai will wait until November 1 to evaluate contract offers from rival clubs. Coach Todd Payten confirmed that the club does not intend to offer an extension to the Samoan representative before he becomes eligible to negotiate with other teams. Nanai has faced a challenging 2026 campaign, limited to nine appearances due to a lingering shoulder injury. He is currently sidelined for the final regular-season home match against the Raiders due to a medial knee injury. While the Cowboys have secured a position in the upcoming finals series, the club maintains an interest in retaining the forward, provided he returns to full fitness. Robert Derby will join the lineup to face the Raiders as North Queensland looks to build momentum heading into the playoffs.

• 5:22 AMZero Tackle NRL — Jeremiah Nanai makes shock contract call ahead of November 1