South Sydney Rabbitohs suspend contract talks, star winger Mitchell sidelined

The South Sydney Rabbitohs announced a pause on all 2027 contract negotiations, except for centre Tallis Duncan, who remains under discussion. The club will allow other players—including Latrell Mitchell, Campbell Graham, Brandon Smith and several others—to engage with rival NRL clubs after the November 1 deadline, potentially freeing up around $6 million on the salary cap.

Meanwhile, Latrell Mitchell has been referred to a neurologist after a series of injuries, including a calf strain and a nerve issue linked to a lower‑back problem. The club cannot guarantee his return before the season ends, and his prolonged absence adds to an injury list that already includes forwards Cameron Murray and Tallis Duncan. The Rabbitohs sit seventh on the ladder and are fighting to stay in the finals race.

The combined effect of the contract pause and Mitchell’s likely season‑ending injury poses a significant challenge to South Sydney’s campaign as it approaches the crucial final weeks of the NRL season.