In a significant development in the NRL world, Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs hooker Reed Mahoney has been granted permission to speak with rival clubs effective immediately. The move could result in Mahoney leaving the club well before his contract expires in 2026, signalling a major shift in the Bulldogs’ roster strategy.
Bulldogs Signal a Changing of the Guard
According to reports, Bulldogs general manager Phil Gould gave Mahoney’s management the go-ahead late last week. This decision stems from the club’s intent to invest in young talent, with rising star Bailey Hayward now seen as the club’s long-term No. 9.
Mahoney, who has been a central figure in the Bulldogs’ recent resurgence, now finds himself potentially on the move after less than two years with the club. Gould’s only condition was that Mahoney keep him informed about any offers he receives and give the Bulldogs an opportunity to respond before making a final decision.
This development also coincides with Canterbury's pursuit of teenage prodigy Lachlan Galvin from the Wests Tigers, suggesting the Dogs are keen on building a young and dynamic core for the future.
Mahoney’s Journey to Belmore
Reed Mahoney joined the Bulldogs at the end of the 2022 season after a standout stint with the Parramatta Eels, which included a grand final appearance. He signed a lucrative four-year deal worth approximately $2.5 million — a major investment for a club in rebuild mode.
At the time, Mahoney was considered one of the premier hookers in the NRL, and his arrival at Belmore was viewed as a major coup for the Bulldogs. His leadership, defensive grit, and competitiveness helped inject a new level of intensity into the team.
In just over a year, Mahoney played a vital role in helping the Bulldogs rise from 15th on the ladder in 2023 to sixth by the end of the season. This year, the club has stormed out of the gates and currently sits at the top of the ladder after 12 rounds — a testament to the rapid progress made under head coach Cameron Ciraldo.
Discipline Issues Surface
Despite his on-field contributions, Mahoney has found himself under scrutiny in recent weeks for his discipline. He currently leads the Bulldogs in penalties conceded with eight, raising concerns about his ability to keep his emotions in check during critical moments.
Known for playing with high intensity and passion, Mahoney recently addressed the scrutiny in an interview with Fox Sports. Standing at just 175cm, Mahoney is one of the smallest players in the competition, but he embraces the challenge of matching up against bigger opponents.
“Most teams, they run at the small guys. They just run at you and I take that real personal,” Mahoney said.
“When you’ve got a six-foot-eight front-rower who is 120 kilograms running at you, you’ve got to get off the line and try and whack him. It’s just what you’ve gotta do and sometimes my passion takes over.”
His tenacity and willingness to put his body on the line have made him a fan favourite, but it also highlights the physical and mental toll of playing such an intense style week in and week out.
State of Origin Pedigree
Mahoney’s talents haven’t gone unnoticed at the representative level. He was called into the Queensland Maroons’ extended squad for the 2023 State of Origin decider, underscoring his credentials as one of the elite hookers in the game.
With 161 NRL games under his belt, Mahoney brings experience, grit, and leadership to any team he plays for — qualities that will undoubtedly attract plenty of interest from rival clubs.
North Queensland Cowboys Emerge as Potential Suitors
One club already rumoured to be interested in Mahoney’s services is the North Queensland Cowboys. With their current hooker and Blues representative set to join the Sydney Roosters next season, the Cowboys are on the hunt for a reliable No. 9.
Mahoney, a Queenslander himself, could be an ideal fit for the Cowboys as they look to bolster their spine with experienced talent. His toughness, high work rate, and leadership qualities make him a valuable asset for any side hoping to contend in 2025 and beyond.
What’s Next for Mahoney?
The next few weeks will be crucial for both Mahoney and the Bulldogs. With permission now granted to explore his options, Mahoney’s management is expected to begin fielding offers from rival clubs immediately.
While the Bulldogs still hold his contract until the end of 2026, an early exit is now firmly on the cards — especially if a club is willing to make a competitive offer and provide Mahoney with a long-term role.
Should he depart, the Bulldogs would likely shift focus fully to Bailey Hayward, allowing the young hooker to grow into a key figure in their future plans. Meanwhile, the club’s recruitment of Lachlan Galvin is another signal that the Dogs are doubling down on youth and long-term development.
Bulldogs Fans React
For Bulldogs fans, the news comes as a mix of surprise and disappointment. Mahoney was seen as a cornerstone of the rebuild and a leader on and off the field. However, the emergence of younger talent and the club’s aggressive recruitment strategy suggest a bold new direction.
Supporters will no doubt be watching closely to see how this situation unfolds and whether Mahoney finishes the 2025 season in blue and white or finds a new home elsewhere in the NRL.
Final Thoughts
Reed Mahoney’s immediate future in the NRL is now up in the air after being granted permission to negotiate with rival clubs. While the Bulldogs are clearly planning for the future, Mahoney remains a quality hooker who still has plenty to offer at the elite level.
His next destination could shape not only his own career but also influence the balance of power among clubs heading into 2026. One thing is certain — this story is far from over.
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Mitchell
Mitchell is a seasoned Ph.D. scholar with extensive expertise gained through years of rigorous research, publication, and teaching experience. He brings a wealth of knowledge and analytical skills to tackle complex academic challenges. His work is dedicated to delivering innovative solutions, advancing knowledge, and promoting academic excellence. Proficient in research methodology, data analysis, and scholarly writing, Mitchell has contributed to peer-reviewed journals and mentored students to achieve academic success.
