The Canterbury Bulldogs have given their hooker Reed Mahoney permission to talk with rival clubs. This decision opens the possibility that Mahoney could leave the Bulldogs during the current season. The club’s general manager Phil Gould approved the request late last week, allowing Mahoney’s management to explore offers from other teams.
Mahoney joined the Bulldogs at the end of 2022 on a four-year deal worth around 2.5 million Australian dollars. He arrived fresh from playing in the grand final with the Parramatta Eels. The 27-year-old has played a key role in the Bulldogs’ recent rise, helping the team improve from 15th place in 2023 to first on the ladder after 12 rounds this year.
Despite Mahoney’s contributions, the Bulldogs see rising star Bailey Hayward as their long-term hooker. The club indicated that Mahoney will not be offered a contract extension beyond the current deal, which expires at the end of 2026. This situation prompted Mahoney’s management to seek permission to negotiate with other clubs. Phil Gould required that the Bulldogs be kept informed about any offers before Mahoney signs a new contract.
Mahoney’s discipline has been questioned recently. He has given away the most penalties among Bulldogs players this season, with eight penalties conceded. Over his career, Mahoney has played 161 NRL games and was included in the Queensland Maroons extended squad for last season’s State of Origin decider.
The North Queensland Cowboys are reportedly looking for a new hooker for the next season after losing their previous player to the Sydney Roosters. Mahoney is considered a potential target for the Cowboys as they search for a replacement.
The Bulldogs have made a significant turnaround in recent years under coach Cameron Ciraldo. From finishing 15th in 2023, they climbed to sixth last year and now lead the NRL ladder. This progress has increased competition within the team, pushing the club to focus on younger talent like Bailey Hayward for the future.
Mahoney’s possible departure could change the Bulldogs’ team structure and offer new opportunities for other clubs like the Cowboys. Fans and analysts will be watching closely as talks continue.
