After months of speculation, Sydney Roosters playmaker has finally opened up about his decision to reject rival interest and commit his future to the Tricolours — a choice he says was driven by loyalty, belief, and unfinished business.
The 22-year-old halfback has signed a new two-year extension worth a reported $2.1 million, keeping him at Bondi Junction until at least the end of 2027. The decision wasn’t about chasing the biggest offer, but finding the right fit.
“It just felt right,” Walker said. “This club feels like home. I’ve been here since I was a kid, and the Roosters have always believed in me. I wanted to repay that faith.”
Rejecting Rivals, Staying Loyal
The off-contract young star was one of the hottest targets on the NRL market, with several clubs — including Brisbane and the Dolphins — showing serious interest. But despite the potential for a lucrative bidding war, Walker said his heart never wavered from the Roosters.
“There was a lot of talk, and it’s flattering,” he admitted. “But I love this club. The people here — Robbo (coach Trent Robinson), the players, the staff — they’ve all had my back from day one. I couldn’t see myself anywhere else.”
Walker first arrived at the Roosters as a teenage prodigy from Queensland and made his NRL debut in 2021. Since then, he’s developed into one of the game’s brightest young halves, known for his vision, creativity, and composure under pressure.
Faith Rewarded
Walker’s journey hasn’t been without setbacks. In 2023, he was dropped to reserve grade mid-season, only to fight his way back into the side and finish the year as one of the Roosters’ best. Then came a major hurdle — a knee injury that ended his 2024 campaign prematurely.
Through it all, the club stood by him. And that loyalty, Walker said, was a big factor in his decision to stay.
“There were tough moments where I had to learn and grow. The coaches never gave up on me — they kept pushing me to be better. That’s something I’ll never forget.”
Robinson’s Belief
Coach Trent Robinson has been one of Walker’s biggest supporters, backing the young halfback as the long-term leader of the Roosters’ spine.
“Sam is an exceptional talent,” Robinson said when the new deal was announced. “But more importantly, he’s a great competitor and a quality person. We believe his best footy is still ahead of him.”
The deal, believed to be worth over $1 million per season, places Walker among the NRL’s elite earners — a clear statement of faith from one of the league’s most successful clubs.
Eyes on the Future
With his contract settled and recovery progressing well, Walker’s focus has already shifted to the Roosters’ next chapter. After a turbulent few seasons of injuries and inconsistency, the young playmaker is determined to help restore the club to premiership contention.
“It’s about getting back to the top,” Walker said. “We’ve got the squad, the systems, and the culture here to do it. I just want to play my part and lead us there.”
As one of the brightest young halves in the game, Walker’s recommitment is a major coup for the Roosters — and a sign that the club’s future remains in steady hands.
“At the end of the day, I love wearing this jersey,” he said. “I grew up watching the Roosters win big games. Now it’s my turn to help make those memories for the next generation.”
The Verdict
In a rugby league era where loyalty often takes a back seat to contracts and headlines, Sam Walker’s decision to stay put is a refreshing reminder of what really matters: belief, belonging, and the bond between a player and his club.
For the Roosters, it’s not just about keeping a $2 million star — it’s about locking in the heart of their future.
