Super League Stars: A Dream XIII of Off-Contract Talent

A Talent-Laden Pool of Free Agents

May 1 has now passed, and over 150 players in Super League are set to see their contracts expire at the end of the season. To add a bit of fun, we’ve compiled a Dream XIII from this pool of off-contract talent.

Interestingly, only two clubs – Leeds Rhinos and Wigan Warriors – have single-digit numbers of players set to become free agents. On the other end of the spectrum, newcomers London Broncos have a staggering 26 players in their squad without deals for 2025.

Delving into the numbers further, Castleford Tigers (14), Catalans Dragons (16), Huddersfield Giants (10), Hull FC (13), Hull KR (11), Leigh Leopards (20), London (26), Salford Red Devils (11), St Helens (12), Warrington Wolves (13) make up the clubs with players off-contract.

The Dream XIII

Our Dream XIII of Super League stars whose deals are set to expire features a mix of experienced heads and emerging talents. Let’s take a closer look:

1. Ryan Hampshire (Wigan Warriors)
   Full-back was not an area flush with options, but Wigan’s Hampshire provides versatility and reliability when called upon. The 29-year-old academy graduate has been a valuable squad member for the reigning champions.

2. Umyla Hanley (Leigh Leopards)
   After patiently waiting for his chance, the 22-year-old Hanley has seized the opportunity, cementing a spot in the Leigh side with 10 tries already this season. His development has impressed coach Adrian Lam.

3. Esan Marsters (Huddersfield Giants)
   Marsters has elevated his game in 2024, sitting second in the competition for metres made per game. The 27-year-old Cook Islands international has also increased his try-scoring output for the Giants.

4. Kevin Naiqama (Huddersfield Giants)
   Naiqama’s experience and quality have been valuable for Huddersfield, with the 35-year-old Fiji star already touching down for 8 tries this year. Alongside Marsters, he forms a formidable centre pairing.

5. Jon Bennison (St Helens)
   Despite his tender age of 21, Bennison is fast approaching 50 Super League appearances for champions St Helens. The versatile youngster has impressed with his composure and all-round game.

6. Olly Russell (Huddersfield Giants)
   Russell, 25, is an undoubted talent who has been unfortunate with injuries and limited game time at the Giants. A creative half-back, he deserves an opportunity to showcase his abilities.

7. Marc Sneyd (Salford Red Devils)
   Sneyd’s kicking game and game management make him a valuable asset, with the 33-year-old consistently performing for Salford week in, week out throughout his career.

8. Patrick Mago (Wigan Warriors)
   The powerful forward has made a strong impact off the bench for Wigan, contributing heavily to their success. The 27-year-old Kiwi is likely to attract interest if he becomes a free agent.

9. Matt Parcell (Hull KR)
   A Grand Final winner with Leeds, the 31-year-old Australian hooker has been a key figure in Hull KR’s resurgence, providing quality service and momentum from dummy-half.

10. Tom Amone (Leigh Leopards)
    The Leigh prop’s development has been remarkable, from struggling to make the Leopards’ lineup to earning a spot in the Super League Dream Team last year. His impact is felt across the park.

11. Sione Mata’utia (St Helens)
    Mata’utia’s versatility and work rate have made him an invaluable player for St Helens. The 27-year-old former NRL and international star has featured in multiple positions this season.

12. Rhyse Martin (Leeds Rhinos)
    Despite Leeds’ recent struggles, the consistent Martin has been a rare bright spot. The 30-year-old Papua New Guinea international is a reliable performer, both with ball in hand and the boot.

13. John Asiata (Leigh Leopards)
    Asiata’s absence through injury has been keenly felt by Leigh, with the Samoa and Tonga international serving as the captain and driving force in the pack. His return will be a major boost for the Leopards.

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