Matt Lodge rejects train-and-trial deal as Dragons look elsewhere
Matt Lodge’s train-and-trial deal with the St. George Illawarra Dragons has officially fallen through, leaving the veteran prop on the open market and fueling speculation about his NRL future.
The 29-year-old reportedly turned down the $1,200-per-week offer, seeking a Top 30 contract instead.
Dragons coach Shane Flanagan confirmed the deal never materialised, reiterating the club’s focus on finding an experienced front-rower.
“He hasn’t signed a train-and-trial contract and he’s highly unlikely to,” Flanagan told The Big Sports Breakfast.
“We’ve spoken to Matt and that’s one of these things that has gone off a little bit early. We’ll just move on and I’m looking for another middle. He was suggested as one.”
Flanagan added: “We’ve got 10 middles, but three of them are really young. I’m really comfortable with the players that we’ve got this year and our squad depth, but we’ll still be in the market for a front-rower.”
This marks the second time in three months that Lodge has rejected a deal.
In November, he turned down what he considered a “lowball” offer from Manly. Despite these setbacks, Lodge remains confident about his playing future.
“If I didn’t know I had plenty left in the tank, I wouldn’t be playing on,” Lodge told News Corp last year.
“But I’m excited about the years ahead and I will be ready to go.”
The Dragons are preparing for the 2025 NRL season with a mix of experienced forwards like Francis Molo, Jack de Belin, and Hame Sele, along with younger talents.
While Flanagan has expressed confidence in his squad, the team is still exploring options to bolster its forward pack as they head into their season opener against the Bulldogs, where they are underdogs at $3.50 with the top NRL bookmakers.
Meanwhile, Lodge’s availability has also drawn attention from Super League clubs, sparking speculation that the Sydney-born forward could make his first move overseas.
With 121 NRL appearances across five clubs, Lodge’s experience remains a valuable asset for teams in need of front-row depth.
