Reed Mahoney has been granted written permission to explore offers from rival NRL clubs, in a move that could see the former Bulldogs captain exit Belmore well before his current deal expires at the end of 2026.
The 27-year-old hooker, who joined Canterbury from the Eels in late 2022 on a four-year deal reportedly worth $2.5 million, has been central to the club’s rebuild under Cameron Ciraldo.
But with the Bulldogs identifying Bailey Hayward as their long-term option at No. 9, Mahoney has been told he won’t be offered a new contract beyond 2026, prompting his camp to seek clarity on his future.
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Gould confirms early talks were Mahoney’s idea
Bulldogs general manager Phil Gould confirmed on 100% Footy that Mahoney’s management initiated the request, and he was happy to oblige. “I said, well, it’s a bit early to make a call on him for 2027,” Gould said. “I said, but by then the salary cap is going to be tight, so I’m happy for you to have a look around if you want to. So it came at his request.”
Gould added that he expects to be kept informed of any offers Mahoney receives, but was surprised the development became public: “How that got into the media I don’t know and who leaked that I don’t know.”
Despite captaining the side and helping them rise from 15th in 2023 to first on the ladder after 12 rounds this year, Mahoney’s discipline has come under fire, leading the team in penalties conceded.
Still, the Queenslander, who has played 161 NRL games and was part of the Maroons’ extended Origin squad last year, remains one of the toughest pound-for-pound players in the league.
The Cowboys, in need of a hooker after losing the Blues’ No. 9 to the Roosters, are one of several clubs expected to express interest.