Roosters hooker Brandon Smith has firmly dismissed rumors linking him to a return to the North Queensland Cowboys amidst growing speculation about his future at the club. Signed from Melbourne in 2023 on a lucrative $900,000 per year deal, Smith’s first two seasons with the Roosters have not lived up to expectations. The situation worsened when his 2024 campaign ended prematurely due to an ACL injury sustained in round 26 against Canberra.
Reports have surfaced that the Roosters might allow Smith to negotiate with other teams earlier than expected, fueling uncertainty about his tenure. However, Smith has countered these rumors, emphasizing that he and his partner are content with their life in Sydney and have no interest in relocating to North Queensland.
The speculation around Smith also includes talk of a potential trade deal involving the Cowboys’ Reece Robson, which would address the Roosters’ need for a reliable No.9. This need arose after the club failed to secure Ben Hunt in an earlier pursuit. Smith, however, has adamantly denied the idea, reiterating his commitment to the Roosters.
Speaking on his “Bye Round Podcast,” Smith dismissed the rumors. “We’ve spoken to a few clubs, but the Cowboys weren’t one of them,” he said. “I still want to be at the Roosters, stay in Sydney, and keep doing the podcast. I don’t want to move to Townsville in that blistering heat. To be fair, they can’t force me to go there.”
Smith’s strong stance suggests he remains focused on recovering and continuing his tenure with the Roosters.
