The Canberra Raiders have surged into contention to sign prop Leo Thompson, one of the most sought-after players on the NRL market. Thompson, currently under contract with the Newcastle Knights through 2025, has become a focal point for multiple clubs, including the Bulldogs and Dragons, while Newcastle has tabled a significant offer to retain him.
The Raiders, who nurtured Thompson during his under-20s career in 2020 and 2021, are now being seen as serious contenders for his signature in 2026. According to NRL insider Michael Carayannis, the Raiders are making a strong push, capitalizing on their past association with Thompson.
“The most in-demand player on the open market is Leo Thompson,” Carayannis stated. “He’s not a huge name, but props are now the third-highest paid position in the NRL behind fullbacks and halfbacks. Canberra is a genuine hope of landing him.”
If Thompson joins the Raiders, it could trigger a shake-up in Canberra’s forward pack. Veteran prop Josh Papali’i is expected to retire at the end of the season, and there is uncertainty surrounding the futures of Emre Guler and Corey Horsburgh.
While Horsburgh appears more likely to stay after resolving issues with coach Ricky Stuart, Guler has reportedly drawn interest from the Dragons and Bulldogs.
With Thompson’s value skyrocketing amid a market hungry for elite forwards, his decision could have significant implications not only for the Raiders but also for the wider NRL landscape. Could Canberra’s past ties to Thompson give them the edge, or will another club swoop in to secure the rising star? Stay tuned as the battle for Thompson heats up.
