“JUST A WHISPER”: ANGUS CRICHTON RESPONDS TO RUGBY 360 TALK, ADDRESSES FUTURE WITH ROOSTERS
Sydney Roosters forward Angus Crichton has spoken out for the first time about speculation linking him to Rugby 360 or a possible exit from the NRL, making it clear that for now, his focus remains firmly on the Tricolours.
The New South Wales State of Origin representative, who is contracted to the Roosters until the end of 2026, will be free to begin formal negotiations with rival clubs from November 1. That upcoming date has fuelled reports of interest from both rugby union and Rugby 360, the new Saudi Arabian-backed competition reportedly willing to throw huge money at marquee NRL players.
Crichton’s Name in the Headlines
Over the weekend, a report suggested Crichton had ruled out playing for any rival NRL outfit, with rugby union shaping as the only possible option beyond the Roosters. The suggestion was that if Crichton ever walked away from Bondi, it would be to chase a lucrative code switch rather than to wear the colours of another NRL side.
Appearing on Nine’s Wide World of Sports, Crichton addressed the noise but was quick to downplay it.
“To be completely honest, especially at this time of year, I’m just so focused on playing footy for the Roosters,” he said. “I know I’m there for next year, and a year is a long time in footy. So right now, I’ve just got my blinkers on, working hard and playing my best footy for the Roosters.”
The 29-year-old has been a consistent performer for the club this season, rediscovering some of his best form after a challenging 2023. With finals approaching, Crichton said the last thing he wanted was to be distracted by speculation about his future.
Roosters’ Salary Cap Situation
The Roosters, who in past years have been tight against the salary cap, may be in a better position now to retain Crichton long-term. A number of key departures at the end of last year have freed up space in the budget, and so far those roster losses have not been fully replaced.
That flexibility means the Tricolours could potentially offer Crichton an upgrade on his current deal to secure his commitment. Roosters officials are believed to value his experience, versatility, and leadership qualities, particularly as they look to rebuild their pack around younger forwards.
Still, no NRL club is in a position to match what Rugby 360 is reportedly prepared to pay. The new competition, bankrolled by Saudi Arabian investors, is said to be lining up offers as high as $2 million per season for high-profile signings—a figure that dwarfs even the most lucrative contracts currently available in the NRL.
“Just a Whisper”
Asked directly about Rugby 360, Crichton admitted the reports had caught his attention but insisted the talk was premature.
“For sure, but at this point, it’s nothing but a whisper,” he explained. “Until there is anything signed, you’re not going to see guys putting their hands up saying, ‘I’m going to go and do this.’ But the amount of cash they are throwing around is definitely perking ears up.
“They’re talking about one-and-a-half, two million dollars for these players. But at this point in time, it’s just a whisper.”
His comments reflect the uncertainty surrounding Rugby 360. While the numbers being mentioned are eye-watering, there is still little clarity about how the competition will be structured, where it will be played, or how it would fit into the global rugby calendar.
NRL Faces Potential Raid
Despite the unknowns, the lure of big money has already generated headlines. Rugby 360 has been linked to approaches for several marquee names, including Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, Zac Lomax, Jaydn Su’A, and Ryan Papenhuyzen. The speculation is that the competition could attempt a full-scale raid on the NRL, targeting stars across multiple clubs.
If that were to happen, Crichton could find himself at the centre of a major tug-of-war between the NRL and rugby. The back-rower already has rugby pedigree, having played schoolboy rugby at Scots College before launching his league career with South Sydney and later crossing to the Roosters.
That background makes him an attractive prospect for rugby administrators, who are desperate to add strike power and star appeal to their ranks. His ability to cover multiple positions, coupled with his experience at State of Origin and international level, only adds to his value.
Focus on the Present
For now, though, Crichton is adamant that none of it is distracting him. His only priority is finishing the 2025 season strongly with the Roosters. With finals looming and the Tricolours fighting for a top-four finish, Crichton said he was determined to let his football do the talking.
“Honestly, I don’t want to get caught up in it,” he said. “I know there’s always going to be talk, but all I can do is play good footy and give everything for the boys here. That’s my focus.”
He also acknowledged that “a year is a long time in footy,” leaving the door open for discussions down the track but not committing to any particular direction.
What Happens Next
From November 1, rival NRL clubs can officially table offers, though it remains unlikely Crichton would entertain an approach from within the league. Rugby union and Rugby 360 appear the only viable alternatives if he were to leave the Roosters.
The bigger question is whether Rugby 360 can deliver on its promises. While the competition’s backers are reportedly prepared to spend unprecedented amounts to lure players, until contracts are formally signed, the talk will remain just that—talk.
For now, Crichton continues to brush aside the speculation, staying grounded and focused on the here and now. But his name will inevitably remain in the headlines as November approaches and Rugby 360 looms as a potential disruptor on the rugby league landscape.
If the whispers eventually turn into genuine offers, the Roosters, NRL, and fans alike will find out just how tempting life outside the league could be for one of the game’s premier forwards.
