The Sydney Roosters are set to secure one of rugby league’s most inspiring comeback stories, with Cody Ramsey on the verge of signing a two-year development deal that will see the fullback depart St George Illawarra.
The 25-year-old’s return to the game has been nothing short of extraordinary.
The Dragons fullback spent 896 days sidelined after being diagnosed with ulcerative colitis, a debilitating condition that ultimately required the removal of his entire large bowel in 2023.
Against all odds, Ramsey made a remarkable return to the field last season with the Dragons, leading their NSW Cup side to the grand final, where they were ultimately defeated 30-12 by the minor premiers, the New Zealand Warriors.
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This year, the young fullback played 24 games for the Dragons’ NSW Cup side and was honoured as the team’s NSW Cup Player of the Year.
St George Illawarra had hoped to retain the local junior, offering him a development contract for 2026 that included performance-based clauses leading to a full NRL deal in 2027.
However, it was the Roosters who ultimately won the race for his signature, with Ramsey agreeing to a two-year development deal positioning him as a key long-term asset in the club’s plans, according to the Daily Telegraph.
This follows reports that the 25-year-old was recently spotted touring the Roosters’ Moore Park facilities, according to the Sydney Morning Herald.
The Dragons confirmed Ramsey’s departure from the Red V on Tuesday afternoon, noting that the club “explored a range of options in an attempt to retain Cody”.
“We would like to sincerely thank Cody for his many contributions to the club throughout his time here,” CEO Tim Watsford said.
“His journey inspired us all. He is held in very high esteem here and we were proud to stand by him as he battled to return from his illness.
“He is a very impressive young man, and although the club worked through many options for Cody to remain in the Red V, it ultimately wasn’t to be, and we wish him and his family every success going forward.”