Storm halfback Jahrome Hughes has slapped down any suggestion he will be joining the Western Bears when they join the NRL having hinted he wants to remain in Melbourne for his entire career. While his insistence he wants to remain in Melbourne could be a blow for a rival club trying to lure Ryan Papenhuyzen away. After the announcement the Western Bears are set to become the next NRL team to enter the competition in 2027, a number of big names were tossed around as a marquee signings. Due to likely increases to the salary cap in coming years, the Perth-based Bears will present an opportunity for the first player in the history of the game to break the $2 million barrier when they come into the comp in 2027. North Sydney Bears board member Billy Moore predicted last week that the market for players will explode in the next few years. Ryan Papenhyzen was linked as a potential $2 million signing with the fullback having only signed a short-term deal with the Storm till the end of 2026. Another big name also off contract at the Storm is halfback Hughes. The reigning Dally M winner hadn't committed to the Storm leading into the 2025 season, which has led to speculation he could be open to entering the market. Hughes could also attract a mega-contract boost considering his rise as one of the game's best playmakers. This saw him linked to the Bears considering he would be free to negotiate with other clubs at the end of 2025. Speaking on SEN Radio last week, NRL reporter David Riccio suggested the two names at the top of the list for the Bears could be Hughes and Broncos powerhouse Payne Haas.
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