Wigan have retained a big prize, but it will come at a cost elsewhere.
Wigan Warriors have re-signed key forward Sam Walters to a long-term contract. However, the deal is now set to come at a cost elsewhere, with player exits now ‘inevitable’ – at least according to club chief executive Kris Radlinski.
One of those exits is already set in stone, with All Out Rugby League exclusively reporting back in March that Wigan prop Harvie Hill has signed for Hull FC – who offered a better deal than the champions could facilitate.
Ultimately, that fact has helped tie Hill down, with the young Cumbrian middle set to continue his development with the Airlie Birds under John Cartwright from next season.
That salary cap reality could also bite elsewhere, with Wigan’s success meaning retention comes at a greater price, with players naturally earning more due to recent achievements. It’s something Radlinksi acknowledged when speaking to club media after Walters’ new four-year deal was confirmed.
He explained: “Sam committing to us for a long period is wonderful news, as his potential is huge. Whilst the news must be celebrated, there’s always a flip side. Retaining the exceptional talent that will shape our next five years remains a top priority.
“We’re proud of the success this squad has achieved, and it’s a testament to their quality that many are now in high demand. However, in a salary cap sport, keeping a winning group together is never easy.
“Success brings opportunity, and in a short playing career, we fully respect players must make decisions in their best interests. While some departures are inevitable, replacing like-for-like talent is not always possible. We remain committed to building a strong, competitive team—but acknowledge the challenges that come with sustained success.”
As well as Hill, another prop forward is expected to leave Wigan at the end of the season, with Liam Bryne set to join Warrington Wolves for 2026 – a move first reported by the Warrington Guardian.
However, there’s no denying that Walters’ new contract is a huge bit of retention for Wigan. The forward has grown and grown in head coach Matt Peet’s setup, with his future now secured until at least the end of the 2029 season.
He originally joined Wigan from Leeds on a three-year deal ahead of 2024 but has now earned an improved contract after making 28 appearances for the club in both the back row and prop positions.
Walters broke his collarbone in a pre-season friendly game at Hull last year but returned strong to play his part in Wigan’s quadruple-winning season. He is currently out with a broken leg suffered at Catalans in May.
Commenting on his new deal, Sam Walters said: “I’m delighted, and grateful to have signed a new deal with the club. My family and I are settled here, and I believe this is the best place for me to keep developing my game. I want to continue working hard towards bringing more success to this club.”
Meanwhile, Peet added: “Sam is very professional, and I’ve loved coaching him. Of course, I’m delighted we’ve got him for a further four years. Everyone will have been impressed by Sam’s form this year.
Some of the foundations were laid last year, with how hard he worked, and he has grasped this opportunity with both hands. I can’t wait to see how we can maximise his potential in the coming years.”
