The Melbourne Storm have officially confirmed star winger Xavier Coates will remain in purple until the end of the 2027 season.
The 24-year-old signed a one-year extension, adding to his existing deal that ran through 2026.
Since arriving in Melbourne from Brisbane in 2022, Coates has become one of the NRL's most prolific try-scorers.
A Queensland Maroons and Australian Kangaroos representative, Coates has also proudly represented Papua New Guinea, where he was born before moving to Australia as a child.
Storm director of football Frank Ponissi said Coates' re-signing was a significant step in keeping the club's premiership core intact.
"Xavier has been an outstanding addition to Storm since arriving three years ago," Ponissi said.
"His professionalism, work ethic, and commitment to the club make him the type of player we want in purple.
"He’s become an important leader in our group, and we’re excited to see what he can achieve over the next few seasons."
Coates has already played 73 games for the Storm, scoring 61 tries. In 2025, he's enjoying his best return yet, crossing 19 times in 19 matches.
He credited the Storm culture for his growth both on and off the field.
"I’ve loved every minute of my time in Melbourne," Coates said.
"The club has helped me grow not only as a player but as a person.
"We’ve got a great group of players and coaches, and I want to be part of bringing more success to Storm."
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Will Xavier Coates be targeted by the PNG expansion club?
The winger's extension has presented an interesting storyline - whether or not he will link up with the new PNG franchise, set to join the NRL in 2028.
Coates has previously expressed pride in his PNG heritage, and the expansion team will be able to begin signing players from November 1 2026 - the same date that the Melbourne flyer can begin his next round of contract negotiations.
For now, though, Coates remains focused on delivering more silverware to Melbourne, where he's already earned accolades including the Cameron Smith Player of the Year award in 2023.
His combination of size, speed, aerial threat and finishing ability make him one of the most feared strike weapons in the competition.
With his future secured, all eyes turn to Melbourne's finals campaign where they will look to bounce back from the heartbreak of last year's grand final to deliver the Storm's fifth premiership in club history.