The Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs are flying high in 2025, but turbulence looms behind the scenes as two key playmakers – Reed Mahoney and Toby Sexton – prepare to part ways with the club.
Their looming exits come as the Bulldogs close in on securing Wests Tigers teenage prodigy Lachlan Galvin, a game-changing acquisition already reshaping Canterbury’s long-term plans.
Mahoney Given Green Light to Explore New Clubs
Despite having 18 months remaining on his current deal, Bulldogs hooker Reed Mahoney has been granted permission to negotiate with rival clubs. The move follows earlier offseason discussions where Mahoney reportedly raised the idea of an early release.
Speaking on Fox League’s NRL 360, Brent Read played down any direct connection between Mahoney’s future and Galvin’s arrival.
“It’s not a Lachlan Galvin related thing,” Read said. “He asked for permission in the offseason to explore his options… and he’s just asked the same question again.”
However, Bulldogs general manager of football Phil Gould has made the club’s direction clear – Mahoney’s contract won’t be extended beyond 2026. Instead, 23-year-old Bailey Hayward has emerged as the club’s long-term choice at hooker, especially after his standout performance in Canterbury’s 32–20 comeback win over Canberra in Round 10.
Cowboys Loom as Mahoney’s Potential Landing Spot
With Reece Robson set to depart the North Queensland Cowboys, Mahoney could slot in as a ready-made replacement. His manager, Sam Ayoub, remains confident the 27-year-old will land a multi-year deal elsewhere.
Currently earning around $600,000 per year, Mahoney is keen to get ahead of the curve and secure his future sooner rather than later – a move that may also free up salary cap space for the Bulldogs’ next big investment.
Sexton Also on the Way Out?
Adding to the shake-up, halfback Toby Sexton is also expected to leave the club, further underscoring Canterbury’s intent to revamp their spine around the incoming Galvin, who is seen as a generational talent.
Rothfield Raises Eyebrow at Timing
Veteran journalist Buzz Rothfield wasn’t entirely sold on the official reasoning behind Mahoney’s exit, hinting that the timing of the Bulldogs’ clear-out better aligns with Galvin’s exit announcement from the Tigers.
Whether coincidental or calculated, one thing is certain – the Bulldogs are making bold moves to reshape their future.
What do you think – is this the right move for the Bulldogs? Drop your thoughts below 👇
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