James Tedesco has extended his tenure at the Sydney Roosters for a further season, keeping him at the Bondi-based club until the end of 2027.
The champion fullback is fresh off another Dally M Medal-winning campaign and remains one of the game’s genuine superstars.
The 32-year-old still had another year to run with the Tricolours, but has opted to ink a fresh deal early in the free agency period.
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“I’m incredibly proud to represent this club and to continue leading a group of players who mean so much to me,” Tedesco said in a statement on Thursday.
James Tedesco Getty
“The Roosters have played a huge role in my career and my life. Working with Robbo [head coach Trent Robinson] has pushed me to become a better player and person, and I’m grateful for the belief he’s always shown in me.
“I know we have a lot more to achieve together, and I’m excited for what’s still to come with this group. I’m committed to doing everything I can to help us get there.”
Tedesco has won two premierships with the Roosters in 2018 and 2019, before taking over the captaincy in 2021 following the retirement of Boyd Cordner.
He is ranked third in the club’s all-time list of captains with 117 games behind only Brad Fittler and Jake Friend.
“I’ve been fortunate to coach some outstanding players, and James stands right alongside the very best,” Robinson said.
“He’s been central to our club’s identity for almost a decade, and his drive to keep evolving makes him such a special leader and person.
“Ted embodies what it means to be a Rooster. He leads through his actions, demands excellence of himself and those around him, and is always looking for ways to get better, so it’s great that we’ll continue to benefit from his experience and example.”
By the time his contract ends, Tedesco will be approaching his 35th birthday and there are many who expect the former NSW and Kangaroos skipper to call it a day at that time.
Kalyn Ponga Getty
If that does end up being the case, it would open the door for the Roosters to bring a long-standing rumour to fruition.
Knights captain Kalyn Ponga, as it stands, is signed until the end of 2027 and has been heavily linked with a move to Bondi for many years.
The fleet-footed Newcastle superstar is on a massive deal at his current club and with the arrival of Dylan Brown on $1.3 million per season, it makes the salary cap top-heavy.
A potential move to the Roosters in a couple of years could allow Ponga to reunite with former teammate and close friend Connor Watson.