The Canberra Raiders have ramped up contract negotiations with back-rower Hudson Young, signaling their intent to lock down one of the NRL's most promising talents. Young, 25, has been a standout performer for the Green Machine this season, attracting interest from rival clubs. However, the Raiders are confident of reaching an agreement that will keep him in the nation's capital beyond his current deal, which expires at the end of 2025.
Contract Talks Intensify
According to sources close to the club, discussions have accelerated in recent weeks, with both parties eager to finalize terms. Raiders coach Ricky Stuart has publicly praised Young's development, describing him as a "future leader" of the team. The club's management is believed to have offered a multi-year extension worth around $600,000 per season, reflecting his rise to become one of the NRL's elite edge forwards.
Young's Impact on the Field
Young has been a key contributor in 2024, averaging over 100 running meters per game and proving his versatility in both attack and defense. His ability to break tackles and offload in traffic has made him a vital cog in the Raiders' attacking structure. Defensively, he has maintained an 85% tackle efficiency, showcasing his reliability in the back row.
The Raiders' urgency to secure Young's signature comes amid a competitive market, with several rival clubs monitoring his situation. The Sydney Roosters and Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs are among those reportedly interested, but the Raiders hope their offer and the opportunity to build a legacy in Canberra will sway his decision.
Young's representative, Braith Anasta, confirmed that talks are progressing positively but declined to provide a timeline for an announcement. "We're working through the details, but Hudson is happy in Canberra and focused on the team's performance," Anasta said.
The Raiders have made retaining their core players a priority, having already re-signed stars like Joseph Tapine and Jamal Fogarty. Securing Young would further solidify their forward pack for the coming years as they aim to return to finals contention.
