Tom Dearden Reaffirms Commitment to North Queensland Cowboys Amid Sydney Transfer Rumors

North Queensland Cowboys co‑captain Tom Dearden held a press conference in Townsville to dismiss speculation that he would leave the club for Sydney. He said his contract runs until the end of 2029 and he has no intention of seeking an early release, calling the rumours "nonsense". Dearden also asked that his private life be respected, noting his partner Millie Olliver is pregnant and that media attention has affected their family.

Dearden remains sidelined with a leg injury after surgery on a syndesmosis issue and a recent shin muscle tear, which limited his 2026 season to a single appearance. The Cowboys have struggled, sitting ninth on the ladder after a heavy loss to the Roosters. Coach Todd Payten described the defeat as the club's "darkest day". Despite his injury, Dearden confirmed his focus is on recovery and returning to the Cowboys when fit.