Spencer Leniu has played his last game for the Sydney Roosters, with the club confirming at their awards night that he will not be at the tri-colours next season among six other players.
Leniu joined the Roosters in 2024, and was originally contracted until the end of 2027, however was given permission to explore consistent starting opportunities elsewhere.
BRISBANE, AUSTRALIA – MAY 02: Spencer Leniu of the Roosters reacts during the round nine NRL match between the Sydney Roosters and Dolphins at Suncorp Stadium on May 02, 2025, in Brisbane, Australia. (Photo by Hannah Peters/Getty Images)
Coach Trent Robinson thanked Leniu for his contribution to the club.
“Spencer has brought a lot to our group over the last three years, both through the way he plays and the energy and personality he brings every day,” said Robinson.
“He came to the Roosters wanting to challenge himself and continue to grow, and we’ve seen him develop not only as a player, but as a leader within our group.
“Spenny has a strong moral compass. He knows what he stands for, he cares deeply about his teammates and the people around him, and he’s never afraid to speak up for what he believes in. Those qualities have made him an important and respected leader within our group.
“He brings an intensity and competitiveness to everything he does, and he challenges the people around him to be better.
“He’s built some really strong relationships across our Club and has been an important part of our group. To see him finish his time here as a Premiership winner is something he should be really proud of, and something we’ll always share together.
“We wish Spencer, Alexia and Izaiah all the best for what comes next.”
Leniu also spoke on his experience at the club and thanked them for the opportunity.
“I’ve loved my time at the Roosters and I’ll always be grateful for the opportunity to have been part of this Club,” said Leniu.
“I came here wanting to challenge myself and grow as a player and as a person, and I feel like I’ve done that. I’ve learnt a lot from Robbo and the coaches, and I’ve been lucky to play alongside a great group of boys who have become my brothers.
“To finish my time here as a Premiership winner is really special. Winning a Premiership with this group and sharing that with the boys, our families and everyone at the Club is something I’ll carry with me for the rest of my life.
“There are a lot of people at the Club who have looked after me and my family from the day I arrived, and that’s something I’ll always appreciate.
“I’m proud to have worn the Roosters jersey and I’ll always have a lot of love and respect for the Club, the boys and everyone who has supported me during my time here.”
The powerful middle forward played an immense role in the Roosters’ premiership triumph, making an immediate impact off the bench despite being limited to just 25 minutes.
It is currently understood the the former Penrith Panther is set to ink a four year deal at the Parramatta Eels starting from 2027.
His exit headlines a significant list of departures confirmed by the Roosters, with a total of seven players farewelling the club following their premiership-winning campaign.
Daly Cherry-Evans will leave the NRL after agreeing to continue his career in the Super League with Hull FC, while Angus Crichton is also departing rugby league after signing a two-year deal with Rugby Australia and the NSW Waratahs.
SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA – SEPTEMBER 13: Mark Nawaqanitawase of the Roosters scores a try during the NRL Elimination Final match between the Cronulla Sharks and Sydney Roosters at Sharks Stadium on September 13, 2025, in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Darrian Traynor/Getty Images)
Mark Nawaqanitawase will also convert to rugby union in Japan, joining the Saitama Wild Knights on a two-year deal after two stellar seasons in the NRL.
Connor Watson will also depart Bondi, with the utility signing a one-year deal with the St George Illawarra Dragons before joining the PNG Chiefs in 2028 on a two-year contract.
The Roosters will also farewell Jake Elliott, who was originally contracted through until the end of 2027.
The 21-year-old is one of the highly touted talents within the Roosters’ system and has been part of the club’s Top 30 squad, with his versatility allowing him to play both halfback and hooker.
However, despite his potential, Elliott is yet to make his NRL debut and was granted permission several months ago to explore opportunities elsewhere in search of a first-grade opportunity.
Zero Tackle understands a contract has been signed with another NRL club.
Junior Pauga will also depart the club.
The 30-year-old winger made five appearances for the Roosters this season but struggled to establish himself as a consistent first-grade player since making his NRL debut for the Wests Tigers in 2021.
Pauga has signed a two-year deal with Hull FC, where he will join Roosters teammate Cherry-Evans in the Super League.
The eighth departure is veteran winger Daniel Tupou, who confirmed his retirement on Wednesday despite being rumored to extend for another year.
SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA – APRIL 25: Daniel Tupou of the Roosters is tackled by Ben Hunt of the Dragons during the round 7 NRL match between the Sydney Roosters and the St George Illawarra Dragons at the Sydney Cricket Ground on April 25, 2019 in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Matt King/Getty Images)
Tupou has finished his NRL career as a one club player, following 15 years in the tri-colours, 307 appearances and 198 tries.
Tommy Talau remains the only Sydney Roosters who is off contract for next season but is expected to sign a one year extension.
The club not confirming this departure suggests news of his new contract will come to light soon.