Ben Hunt has again addressed his NRL future, with the Dragons captain failing to commit to the embattled club as Shane Flanagan looks to embark on a long-term rebuild.
The 33-year-old has been at the centre of constant speculation in recent months, with his mid-season request to move on from St George Illawarra dominating the news cycle during the State of Origin period.
Hunt has been at the Dragons since 2018, becoming one of the game's highest-paid players throughout that timeframe and leading the side to just one top-eight berth.
The halfback has continued to voice his desire to return home to Queensland, despite signing a two-year extension prior to the 2023 season.
MORE: NRL Prelim Finals confirmed team lists | St George Illawarra Dragons season review
Dragons captain Ben Hunt addresses NRL future
Speaking to the media on Tuesday, Hunt was quizzed on his future in the Red V and whether or not he would sign for a rival club if the opportunity presented itself.
“I definitely would – it’s something that we’d like to do, definitely. It’s something that we definitely will do after footy and if the opportunity arises, then it’s something for us to look at," he said.
“I’ll be a Dragon… I’ll be there. Not too much [has changed], but that’s where we’re at the moment.
"I’ve had some conversations with Flanno and I understand where he is coming from as a coach and he wants to win games and he wants me there.
"I’ve accepted that and we’ll move forward. The problem has never been with Flanno at all, I really enjoy Flanno – I had him as assistant coach and we get along really well."
On one hand, Hunt is saying he will be at the Dragons for pre-season, but at the same time, is still leaving the door open for an early exit and blatantly admitting his preference is to play for the Broncos, Titans or Dolphins.
The constant back-and-forth between Hunt and Flanagan through the media since the club's NRL campaign ended three weeks ago has been a massive hinderance on what the incoming coach is hoping to achieve.
Flanagan has already added Rabbitohs front-rower Hame Sele to the mix on a long-term agreement and is actively trying to bolster the side, but with Hunt's continued undermining, it doesn't paint a pretty picture for potential recruits.
Talented young players including Tyrell Sloan and Junior Amone also remain at the helm and look up to a player such as Hunt, but his continued mixed messaging is only going to lead to a lack of trust within the four walls at Wollongong.
Hunt's wishy-washy responses to questions about his contract with the Dragons - one that he signed knowing there were no guarantees over Anthony Griffin remaining as coach - have also diminished his standing among most fans.
If the captain of such a proud club that has over 100 years of history and 16 premierships is publicly stating his ambitions to be elsewhere, what type of example is that setting for the other 29 players on the roster?
Despite his issues with the Dragons, Hunt believes the captaincy is still his to lose.
“If the club thinks that someone else can do a better job than me, I understand and I will accept that," he said.
"As long as the club wants me to be there, I’d be happy to do it."
Dragons appoint Shane Millard as new head of recruitment
While the contract saga surrounding Hunt rolls on, St George Illawarra are looking to make positive steps off the field in preparation for the 2024 season and their long-term approach.
Flanagan has already pulled off a massive coup by landing Dean Young as assistant coach, while the club also announced the appointment of Shane Millard as recruitment and pathways manager this week.
Dragons head of football Ben Haran believes the role is tailor-made for the experienced operator.
"This is a significant role for the club and one that works closely with the head coach... we have been patient in filling this role but with Shane Flanagan confirmed as our head coach moving forward this was a crucial next step.
"Shane brings a wealth of rugby league knowledge and experience and has great connections and strong relationships across the game
"We look forward to him helping the club build a strong playing list and bring through that next generation of Dragons over the coming seasons."
Great bloke Shane. Very talented. Hard working. I coached him years ago. He’s done a wonderful job for us in Pathways at Bulldogs. StGeorge offered him a good job in recruitment. Closer to home. He knows that area very well. Great for him at this stage of his life. Great asset https://t.co/oAKHUymeka
— Phil Gould (@PhilGould15) September 19, 2023
Flanagan has stated his hopes of adding at least four or five more players in the off-season, as well as looking to be active in the player market for 2025 once the upcoming November 1 free agency date arrives.
