Raiders Grant Release to Rising Stars

Stewart and Mooney Free to Explore New Clubs

Two promising talents, former NSW Under-19s representatives Chevy Stewart and Trey Mooney, have been given the green light by the Canberra Raiders to negotiate with other NRL clubs. Both players are permitted to depart the club at the conclusion of the current season.

Future Uncertain for Promising Back

Chevy Stewart, once considered a future custodian for the Raiders, is reportedly facing an uncertain future in Canberra. His path to the primary fullback role has been significantly impacted by the emergence and contract extension of Kaeo Weekes, who has now solidified his claim on the jersey.

Stewart, who made the move from Cronulla, is now free to discuss terms with rival teams, along with his teammate Trey Mooney, as reported by *The Daily Telegraph*. The St George Illawarra Dragons are strongly rumoured to be interested, and his former club, the Cronulla Sharks, have also emerged as a potential suitor.

Mooney’s Contractual Situation and Potential Move

Trey Mooney, who was under contract until 2027 and was viewed as a potential successor to Josh Papalii in the forward pack, has also been granted permission to explore his options. At just 23 years old, Mooney has been a consistent contributor from the interchange bench and a frequent selection as 18th or 19th man this season.

The Newcastle Knights are understood to be leading the race for Mooney‘s signature. The club is facing potential departures of players like Adam Elliott, Jack Hetherington, and Leo Thompson at the season’s end, creating an opening. While a move to the Knights was blocked before the June 30 deadline, their interest is reportedly still active.

“There was interest from a few other clubs, but I went to a City (vs) Country camp, and I knew of Ethan Strange, and we had a great time. We had a nice little chat down there and he told me the club was going in the right direction. I got a little bit of FOMO and called my dad and my manager and said I really want to go to Canberra, so I probably moved down for Strangey.”

—Chevy Stewart

The NRL transfer market saw significant movement around the mid-season deadline, with over 200 player contracts reportedly changing hands before June 30th in the 2024 season. This development for Stewart and Mooney indicates further potential shifts in club rosters ahead of the 2025 campaign.