Sydney Roosters captain James Tedesco has hit back at rival NRL clubs amid growing speculation surrounding player movements at the Tricolours, making it clear the club won’t be rattled by outside noise.
With several Roosters stars regularly linked to rival outfits and whispers of behind-the-scenes approaches circulating across the league, Tedesco says the chatter has become a distraction — and in some cases, crosses the line.
“People love to speculate when it comes to the Roosters,” Tedesco said. “But a lot of what’s being said isn’t accurate, and it doesn’t help anyone.”
The Roosters have long been a magnet for transfer rumours, often accused of cap manipulation or aggressive recruitment tactics whenever their roster shifts. This time, however, the skipper made it clear the playing group remains united and focused on what happens on the field.
“We’ve got a tight group here,” he said. “Everyone knows where they stand. Conversations about contracts and futures happen all the time in this game — that’s nothing new — but it’s handled internally.”
Rival clubs have reportedly been monitoring the availability of several Roosters players as the club manages salary-cap pressure and an evolving squad, but Tedesco dismissed suggestions that the uncertainty is unsettling the team.
“If you let outside talk affect you, you’re already losing,” he said. “We trust the club, we trust the process, and we just get on with our job.”
The Roosters’ leadership group has reportedly reinforced the message behind closed doors, urging players to block out speculation and remain locked in on their campaign.
Tedesco’s comments also serve as a reminder of the club’s standing within the NRL — a benchmark side that inevitably draws attention from rivals looking to gain an edge, whether on the field or at the negotiating table.
“At the end of the day, footy does the talking,” the skipper added. “That’s where our focus is.”
As the transfer carousel continues to spin across the competition, the Roosters appear determined to keep their house in order — and their captain has made it clear they won’t be dragged into public debates with rival clubs anytime soon.
