Dragons make shocking decision to terminate club captain’s contract

After missing the NRL Finals Series for the sixth straight season, the St George-Illawarra Dragons are trying to undergo yet another transformation this offseason. As a part of this attempted rebuild, the club have made the shocking decision to terminate captain Ben Hunt’s contract.

Player wanted out

Ben Hunt joined St George-Illawarra Dragons in 2018 after close to a decade at Brisbane Broncos. In 2024, the player wanted out.

Reports claim that the club captain had been pushing for a move away from St George-Illawarra since midway through the Dragons’ disastrous 2024 NRL campaign. Hunt supposedly told club higher-ups that he was “tired” of losing and the way the club was run.

The betting sites have St George-Illawarra as second favourite to win the 2025 NRL Wooden Spoon. Hunt reportedly made it clear that would not return in January no matter what the club did to improve their chances of avoiding the Wooden Spoon.

In the end, Hunt’s persistence was enough and the club decided to terminate his contract. However, Hunt had to completely renounce his deal, meaning he gave up $950,000 to leave Dragons.

Best path forward for both parties

Ben Hunt’s displeasure at Dragons was one of the worst kept secrets in the NRL this season. The club tended not to comment on any rumours. That is, until this Wednesday.

St George-Illawarra released a statement, announcing that they had parted ways with Hunt by terminating his contract.

“This decision was not easy and was not taken lightly, but we need to do what is best for the club at this time,” Dragons CEO Ryan Webb explained.

“After extensive discussions with Ben and his management, it became clear that this is the best path forward for both parties. It allows the club to openly explore the player market and focus on the future.

“Ben has been an important part of our club and we are grateful for his contributions. We wish him and his family all the best in their next chapter,” Webb added.

Hunt also gave his well wishes to the club. “I am grateful for everything the club has done for me over the years and appreciate them allowing me to explore other opportunities,” said the 35-year-old.

Dragons head coach Shane Flanagan said “Ben is an exceptional player and his skill set will not be easily replaced.”

“However, we are committed to finding the right solutions and believe in the strength of our club moving forward,” Flanagan added.

Hunt is likely to return to Queensland and join either the Titans or the Dolphins. Dragons, meanwhile, have made signing a new halfback their biggest priority this offseason. The Dolphins' Sean O'Sullivan or Bulldogs’ Toby Sexton are reportedly the club’s main targets.