May was rattled by the Roosters call that he was free to leave last week and declined to comment on his future after playing for Samoa against England on Saturday.
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He returns to Sydney later this week and will begin to explore interest already registered by rival clubs, with the likes of Wests Tigers, Dragons and Canterbury in the market for front-rowers.
This masthead reported last week that there are figures at the Roosters that held reservations around whether May was the right cultural fit for the club.
Sources have indicated that coach Trent Robinson has no issue with May on or off the field, with salary cap management and realigning a roster packed with quality forwards driving May’s exit.
Roosters teammate Angus Crichton spoke on Friday in defence of May, having been made aware of the rumours swirling around the club’s decision.
“He is literally straight as an arrow,” Crichton said. “He doesn’t drink, he is a really good guy and he hasn’t done anything off the field to warrant this.
“So for people that are speculating and talking out of tongue, just stop it, and wait until the full story comes to light. He is a good person.”
Sam Walker extends with Roosters until end of 2027
Roosters halfback Sam Walker has signed a two-year extension worth around $1 million a season that will keep him at the club until the end of 2027.
Walker has been contemplating his future at the club for a couple of months, but has finally put pen to paper, ending speculation he could make a return to his home state of Queensland.
Sam Walker will be a Rooster until at least the end of 2027.Credit: Getty Images
The 22-year-old’s decision to recommit comes three days after the November 1 free agency date that allows players off contract at the end of 2025 to start negotiating with rival clubs.
Walker’s upgraded deal pushes his salary into the rare seven-figure orbit, reflecting his status as one of arguably the game’s best young half.
Walker made his NRL debut with the Roosters in 2021, and was a big factor to the club’s success during the 2024 season, until he suffered a season-ending ACL injury in the Roosters round 26 loss to the Raiders.
He will miss at least half the 2025 season along with Roosters hooker Brandon Smith who ruptured his ACL in the same match.
Walker said he was grateful for the club’s support following his injury.
“I’m looking forward to getting back to training later this month so I can keep working hard on my rehab and play my role for the team,” he said.
The short-term extension means Walker is likely to become a free agent at the same time the NRL looks to expand to 18 or 19 teams. The timing could see him one day become one of the most highest-paid players in the game.
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