The race to sign Jonah Pezet is heating up, and several NRL clubs are circling — but one side has reportedly emerged as the clear front-runner. The 21-year-old playmaker, currently contracted to the Melbourne Storm, has become one of the most sought-after young halves in rugby league, thanks to his composure, skill, and ability to manage games beyond his years.
Pezet, who has impressed whenever given the opportunity behind Cameron Munster and Jahrome Hughes, finds himself at a career crossroads. With limited first-grade minutes available in a stacked Storm spine, rival clubs have identified the young half as a prime target to lead their long-term playmaking plans. And according to league insiders, the Canberra Raiders have surged ahead in the race for his signature.
The Raiders’ pursuit makes perfect sense. Following Jamal Fogarty’s move to the Super League and the continued development of Ethan Strange, Canberra have been searching for a calm, structured organiser who can guide the side around the park. Pezet’s skill set — crisp passing, high footy IQ, and an ability to execute set plays under pressure — fits the bill perfectly. He’s the kind of half who could grow alongside the Raiders’ young forward pack, complementing their physicality with his tactical finesse.
What makes Pezet particularly appealing is his grounding at the Storm. Under the guidance of Craig Bellamy, he has learned to play a disciplined, team-first brand of football. That experience, even in limited game time, carries enormous weight in the NRL. Pezet has also excelled in reserve grade, consistently showcasing his ability to control tempo and kick with precision — two attributes Canberra’s attack has often lacked.
However, Melbourne aren’t giving up easily. The Storm are desperate to retain him, viewing Pezet as the long-term successor to Hughes or Munster should either move on in the coming years. Yet, cap pressure and a backlog of talent in key positions may force the club’s hand. Pezet’s management has made it clear that regular first-grade opportunities will be the deciding factor, and that’s something Canberra can offer immediately.
Other interested clubs include the Manly Sea Eagles, who are looking for depth behind Daly Cherry-Evans, and the Dragons, who continue to rebuild under Shane Flanagan. But both face hurdles — Manly’s salary cap is tight, and the Dragons are still determining the right combination in their halves. That leaves Canberra as the most balanced and realistic option — a team on the rise, ready to hand Pezet the keys to their attack.
If the Raiders can close the deal, it would mark one of the smartest signings of the off-season. Jonah Pezet isn’t just a depth player — he’s a long-term investment in stability and class. Canberra’s recent recruitment strategy has focused on youth and potential, and in Pezet they would find both.
The next few weeks are expected to be decisive. With multiple offers on the table and Melbourne still fighting to keep him, Pezet’s future could shape not only his own career but the direction of two NRL clubs heading into 2026.
