Sam Walker’s Value and Salary Set to Skyrocket After Luke Keary’s Retirement Announcement
The Sydney Roosters are facing a major shake-up in their halves combination following the shock retirement announcement of Luke Keary. With Keary set to walk away from the game at the end of this season, all eyes are on young gun Sam Walker, whose value to the team is set to skyrocket.
Walker, who recently put on a stellar performance in the Anzac Day clash against the Dragons, is contracted with the Roosters until the end of the 2025 season. However, with Keary’s departure looming, it’s clear that the Roosters will be looking to secure Walker’s services long-term.
According to reports, Walker’s next contract could potentially be worth seven figures a year, with interest from several clubs already brewing. The Queensland product has been touted as the heir apparent to Daly Cherry-Evans for the Maroons, further increasing his market value.
Despite his limited game time this season due to a head knock, Walker has proven himself to be a key player for the Roosters, with former NRL player Braith Anasta noting that the team has performed significantly better with him on the field.
In light of Keary’s retirement and the impending departures of other key players, the Roosters are said to have a significant amount of money to spend on recruitment. Reports suggest that the club is looking to retain promising half Sandon Smith to partner with Walker in the long term, a departure from their usual strategy of bringing in big-name signings.
It remains to be seen how the Roosters will navigate the upcoming changes in their squad, but one thing is for certain – Sam Walker’s value to the team has never been higher, and securing his services long-term will be a top priority for the club.