**Canterbury‑Bankstown Bulldogs Confirm Departure of Six Key Players
The Canterbury‑Bankstown Bulldogs have confirmed the departure of six players from their roster ahead of the new NRL season—a move that marks a significant shift as the club undertakes a strategic rebuild.
According to club sources, the following players have been officially released:
1. **Josh Addo‑Carr (Winger)** – The high-profile departure stems from two roadside drug tests in September 2024, which led to the termination of his contract. Once a prolific try-scorer for Canterbury, Addo‑Carr’s exit leaves a notable void in the backline ([vistasport.co.uk][1], [sporthour.co.uk][2]).
2. **Jordan Samrani (Utility Back)** – The young dual-positioner has secured a move to the Parramatta Eels. His departure is seen as part of the Bulldogs’ reshuffle to create space for emerging talent ([sporthour.co.uk][2]).
3. **Joash Papalii (Middle Forward)** – Also signed by Parramatta, Papalii’s exit further contributes to the forward pack shake-up ([sporthour.co.uk][2]).
4. **Jeral Skelton (Back‑Rower)** – Skelton has joined Wests Tigers, departing after several developmental seasons with the Bulldogs ([sporthour.co.uk][2]).
5. **Hayze Perham (Fullback)** – Locked in by the Brisbane Broncos, Perham leaves behind his flashes of speed and utility ([sporthour.co.uk][2]).
6. **Chris Patolo (Prop)** – The veteran front-rower will continue his career with the Manly Sea Eagles ([sporthour.co.uk][2]).
This announcement comes after earlier reports suggesting that up to ten players might depart, but the Bulldogs have officially confirmed six key exits for now ([vistasport.co.uk][3]).
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### 🔍 What This Means for the Bulldogs
These departures reflect the club’s strategy to recalibrate its squad. CEO Phil Gould and coach Cameron Ciraldo appear focused on balancing experience with fresh youth talent. By releasing several senior players, Canterbury has freed up substantial salary cap space—flagging a push to sign new talent and fast-track developing juniors ([reddit.com][4]).
At the same time, the Bulldogs have made notable incoming moves, bringing in players like Sitili Tupouniua, Marcelo Montoya, Tom Amone, Zyon Maiu’u and others, with a view toward strengthening both forwards and backs for the 2025 campaign ([sporthour.co.uk][2]).
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### 🧭 Fan Reaction & Next Steps
Fan forums reveal mixed reactions. Some see the departures—particularly Addo‑Carr’s exit—as a disappointing loss of talent, while others welcome the opportunity for new recruits to shine.
Up-and-coming players such as Bailey Hayward remain with the club, having recently re-signed through 2026, and are now well-positioned to step into bigger roles ([sporthour.co.uk][2], [bulldogs.com.au][5]).
With this roster overhaul now in effect, the Bulldogs are preparing for an intensified recruitment phase, targeting both established names and pathway prospects to solidify their squad depth ahead of the season.
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In summary, the departures of these six players symbolize a pivotal rebuild phase for Canterbury. Their strategies now hinge on new signings, internal development, and judicious roster management to restore their place among NRL’s top contenders. Stay tuned as the off-season unfolds and new additions take shape.
* [news.com.au]( )
[1]: “DONE DEAL: Canterbury Bankstown Bulldogs Strengthen Their…”
[2]: “Heartbreaking News: Canterbury Bulldogs Announces Departure of Six Key Player’s Due To…….”
[5]: “Hayward to Remain a Bulldog | Bulldogs”
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