Giant Roosters forward Xavier Va’a has been surprisingly granted an immediate release from the Sydney Roosters as the young prop looks to seize an opportunity elsewhere.
It is a big decision from coach Trent Robinson and the Roosters brass, with Va’a previously seen as a future NRL front-rower.
The 20-year-old academy graduate leaves the club less than a year after making one of the most memorable debuts in recent Roosters history, making an immediate impact.
Va’a burst onto the NRL scene in Round 12 this past season, scoring just 49 seconds after entering the field in what became one of the fastest tries ever recorded in the competition.
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His rapid impact had Roosters fans excited about his long-term potential, but the club confirmed on Friday that Va’a had requested a release to pursue a new pathway.
Head of Recruitment Joel Carbone praised the young forward’s attitude and development during his time in the Tricolours system.
“Xavier has been a great young man to work with and has handled himself with professionalism throughout his time at the Roosters,” said Carbone.
“We thank him for his efforts in Roosters colours and wish him all the very best for the next chapter of his career,” Carbone added.
The identity of Va’a’s next contract is yet to be confirmed, but interest is expected to be strong given his size, impact and youth.
Aside from representative-level staples like Lindsay Collins and Spencer Leniu, the middle forward rotation at Bondi has also seen the emergence of Naufahu Whyte, who was arguably the Roosters’ best middle forward in 2025 after a career year.
After enduring injury concerns, the big prop has found himself behind a star-studded Roosters forward pack, making it difficult for him to earn a regular first-grade spot.
There have also been multiple forwards re-signed at the Roosters in recent months, coupled with new rumours the Tricolours may be looking to make a play for superstar Titans forward Tino Fa’asuamaleaui.
Wherever he lands, Va’a now has the chance to build on a debut moment few players will ever match and likely find more opportunity in first grade than he would at Bondi in the coming season.