Is the Storm era nearing its end? A look at the contract calls facing their biggest names

Tobey Lewis

Is the Storm era nearing its end? A look at the contract calls facing their biggest names image

The Storm have long been the definition of rugby league excellence.

Whether or not you see them that way, the numbers don't lie - they haven't finished outside the top five on the NRL ladder in a decade.

But after suffering back-to-back grand final defeats, the winds of change may be blowing through Melbourne.

Jahrome Hughes has recently extend his contract through 2030, anchoring himself as part of the core in Melbourne's next chapter.

Yet, several of the club's cornerstone figures are approaching a critical crossroads in their careers.

MORE: Storm stunningly release Ryan Papenhuyzen effective immediately

Is the Storm era nearing its end?

Ryan Papenhuyzen

Papenhuyzen has officially played his last game in purple after being granted an immediate release from the final year of his contract.

The 27-year-old fullback was a central figure in Melbourne's rise since 2020, stepping into the fullback role after Hughes' move to halfback.

Sua Fa’alogo, signed through 2028, is tipped to take over the No.1 jersey in 2026. While he's shown flashes of brilliance, he remains largely untested at NRL level.

Nelson Asofa-Solomona

After more than a decade in Melbourne, Asofa-Solomona will also depart, having been granted an early release despite having two years left on his deal.

The 29-year-old's time under Craig Bellamy has been turbulent in recent seasons, marked by injuries and suspensions - including missing the last two grand finals.

Still, his impact on the club's era of dominance can't be overstated.

Cameron Munster

Munster reportedly remains locked in until the end of 2027, but what happens after that is anyone's guess.

When his contract expires, the five-eighth will be 33-years-old - and there's sure to be strong interest from expansion teams, Queensland clubs, or even R360.

If other key Storm figures have already moved on, Munster's departure could mark the symbolic end of the dynasty.

Harry Grant

Come November 1, Grant becomes eligible to negotiate with rival clubs.

While it's hard to imagine the Storm skipper in another jersey, his talent and leadership will attract massive offers across the league.

Melbourne, meanwhile, lack a clear successor at hooker - and could be forced into the market if they can't secure their star No.9.

Craig Bellamy

Perhaps the biggest domino of all is Bellamy.

The veteran coach has committed to another season in 2026, but beyond that, his future remains uncertain. 

At 66-years-of-age, Bellamy has been linked to the Titans job, as well as advisory roles or even retirement - and his departure would almost certainly mark the end of Melbourne's golden age.

Since taking charge, Bellamy has defined what the Storm are as a club. Whenever he steps away, maintaining that magic will be their toughest challenge yet.

Content Producer

Editorial Team