The Sydney Roosters have recently caused a stir in the NRL by notifying their star prop, Terrell May, that he is free to leave the club immediately. This unexpected announcement comes despite May having signed a contract extension just a few months ago, in April 2024, which was meant to keep him at the Roosters until at least the end of the 2026 season. The decision marks a significant shift for both the player and the club, as it signals the Roosters’ intention to reshape their roster and free up salary cap space for a major recruitment drive in the coming years.
Terrell May’s Background
Terrell May’s journey in the NRL began when he made the switch from the Penrith Panthers to the Sydney Roosters prior to the 2022 season. Since then, he has made a strong impression on the field, quickly becoming an integral part of the Roosters’ forward pack. Over the course of his career, he has accumulated 53 NRL appearances, and the 2024 season proved to be his best performance to date.
In 2024, May played in 27 games, primarily coming off the bench, where he showcased his ability to make a significant impact. His statistics from the season underline his effectiveness: he averaged 110 running meters per game, registered 40 offloads, achieved 64 tackle busts, and boasted a remarkable tackle efficiency of nearly 98%. These figures highlight his role as a dynamic player who can change the course of a match when brought onto the field.
Roosters’ Decision to Let May Go
Despite May’s impressive performance, the Roosters have determined that he does not align with their long-term vision. Reports indicate that the club’s management views the decision to let him go as part of a broader strategy to prepare for future success. The Roosters are keen to clear salary cap space, especially after several key players, including Jared Waerea-Hargreaves, Luke Keary, Joseph Suaalii, and Joey Manu, have departed the team. This exodus of talent has left the Roosters in a position where they must reassess their roster and look for new talent to bring in.
By asking May to explore options with other clubs, the Roosters aim to create financial flexibility that will allow them to pursue new signings and reinvigorate their squad. With May’s current contract believed to be worth over $500,000 per year, freeing up that salary cap space could prove beneficial as the club prepares for a significant recruitment effort in 2026 and beyond.
Potential Destinations for Terrell May
As Terrell May looks for his next opportunity, several clubs are already showing interest in acquiring his services:
1. Canterbury Bulldogs: The Bulldogs have been actively searching for a top-tier prop to bolster their forward pack. With their need for mobility and aggression in the engine room, May could be an ideal addition to the team. Coach Cameron Ciraldo would likely see May’s skills as a perfect fit for his strategies.
2. St George Illawarra Dragons: The Dragons have found themselves with extra salary cap space following their decision to release Ben Hunt from the final year of his contract. With this newfound flexibility, they are reportedly in the market for reinforcements. The club has already signed notable players like Valentine Holmes and Damien Cook and is rumored to be pursuing additional talent, making May a valuable target. Given their current forward lineup, a starting spot could be available for him at the Dragons, particularly with competition for positions being relatively light.
3. Wests Tigers: The Tigers are continually looking for ways to improve their squad and rise in the league standings. With David Klemmer nearing the end of his playing career and Stefano Utoikamanu recently transferring to the Melbourne Storm, the Tigers are eager to secure a strong front-row player. May’s skills and experience would be a welcome addition to a team looking to build a more competitive roster.
4. Canberra Raiders: The Raiders might consider making a play for May as they look to the future. With veteran player Josh Papalii nearing retirement, the club could benefit from acquiring a younger prop to help secure a solid foundation for their forward pack. May’s abilities could fill the void left by Papalii and provide stability moving forward.
5. Penrith Panthers: Although it may come as a surprise, the Panthers could also emerge as contenders for May’s signature. With salary cap room and a need to fill a spot in their forward pack following the exit of James Fisher-Harris, the Panthers might see May as a strong candidate. However, past relationships may complicate this, as May’s brothers have had tumultuous experiences with the club in the past.
The May Brothers’ Aspirations
An interesting aspect of Terrell May’s situation is the desire he shares with his brothers to play together. Previously, the three May brothers have expressed a wish to join the same team, which could influence Terrell’s decision on where to go next. This family connection could lead to unique opportunities if a club is willing to accommodate their wishes.
Future Implications for the Roosters
Should May indeed depart the Roosters, the club is likely to look to their younger talent to fill the gaps left in their forward pack. Players such as Naufahu Whyte and De La Salle Va’a, who is set to transition to a Top 30 contract, may see increased roles. The Roosters are clearly gearing up for a transformation within their squad as they work towards building a competitive team for future seasons.
As the NRL landscape continues to evolve, Terrell May’s next steps will be closely monitored by fans and rival clubs eager to secure his talents. The potential for May to find a new home, combined with the Roosters’ ambitious plans for the future, suggests that both player and club are on the brink of significant changes that will shape their respective trajectories in the league.
