Matt Lodge has admitted he will be on the hunt for a new home next year, with the recent signings made by the Roosters likely to put an end to his time at the club.
The 28-year-old signed with the Tricolours mid-way through last season and extended on a one-year deal for 2023 on a reduced salary, with the hopes of earning a long-term extension at the front of his mind.
But after the Roosters splashed the cash on premiership winner Spencer Leniu and announced a fresh contract for Jared Waerea-Hargreaves, the front-rower has been left on the outer.
The club have also lost Fletcher Baker to the Broncos for next season, while young enforcer Tuku Hau Tapuha was released early to join the Sharks.
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Matt Lodge confirms likely Sydney Roosters exit
Speaking to the media prior to the side's Round 15 clash with Penrith, Lodge revealed a recent discussion with head coach Trent Robinson gave him some further clarity on his place at Bondi.
“I know they were trying and I’ve had a chat with Robbo about that and he was apologetic about that," Lodge said.
"It is what it is, that’s the game and it’s a business. It will be a little bit hard to stay here... I don’t love floating and bouncing around though.
"Obviously Jared is gonna play on now. I probably stayed this year assuming that there was a long-term thing, but things have changed and I’m all good with that.
"At the moment, Lindsay [Collins] and Jared are doing well and they are the starting props here. I’m probably a bit limited with minutes and stuff like that… I’ve had a couple of injuries as well.
"I’m looking to play some more consistent and better footy in the weeks ahead."
Where will Matt Lodge play in 2024?
At this stage, Lodge has not signed for another NRL club for next season and remains off-contract.
Manly, Canterbury and St George Illawarra could all benefit from Lodge's aggression and size in the middle of the field and could have room to move in their salary cap for 2024 and beyond.
Lodge has played 108 first grade games during stints with the Tigers, Broncos, Warriors and Roosters.
Sydney Roosters off-contract list
| 2023 | Billy Smith, Connor Watson, Corey Allan, Drew Hutchison, Jake Turpin, Jaxson Paulo (PO), Matt Lodge, Nathan Brown |
| 2024 | Angus Crichton, Brandon Smith (PO), Daniel Tupou, Jared Waerea-Hargreaves, Joseph Manu, Luke Keary, Naufahu Whyte, Nat Butcher, Paul Momirovski, Sitili Tupouniua, Siua Wong, Terrell May |
| 2025 | Egan Butcher, James Tedesco, Robert Toia, Sam Walker |
