Souths and Roosters Strike a Deal as Brandon Smith Heads to Redfern

Kenty and Chimes break down a massive cross-town transfer. After months of speculation and "pure hate" between the two clubs, the Roosters have officially released Brandon Smith to join the South Sydney Rabbitohs effective immediately. 

The Smith Transfer: "Add 10% to the Hate"

In a rare moment of cooperation, the Roosters and Rabbitohs have finalized a deal to move Brandon Smith to Redfern mid-season. While Smith was already signed for 2025, the $180,000 transfer fee allows him to join Souths immediately to rehabilitate his knee injury and prepare for a Round 18 return.

"The hate between these two clubs is legendary—whatever you think it is, add 10%," Kent says. "The Roosters didn't want to help Souths, but once they realized they weren't a direct threat this season and the salary cap numbers worked out, they took the cash. It's a purely financial decision that gets Smith off their books and allows Souths to get him into their system before the June 30 deadline."

Dom Young and the "Risky" DCE Play

The trade wars don't stop at hooker. Kent confirms that Dom Young’s time at Bondi is likely over, with the Roosters looking to clear significant cap space to accommodate the arrival of Daly Cherry-Evans (DCE) in 2025.

"Dom Young is defensively coming up short, and in a Trent Robinson system, that's a liability," Kent explains. "The Roosters are being ruthless. They’re clearing space for DCE, but it’s a risky move. They have young halves like Hugo Savala and Toby Rodwell who are the future. If DCE comes in on a two-year deal, guys like Savala might get frustrated. There’s even talk of loaning Savala out to a club like Canberra just to get him first-grade experience."

Loading Woes: Why Jacob Preston is Facing a Month Out

The NRL Judiciary has once again sparked debate after upholding a four-week suspension for Bulldogs young gun Jacob Preston following a "crusher tackle" on Tino Fa'asuamaleaui. Kent argues that while the rules were technically followed, the punishment doesn't fit the crime.

"It was a minor crusher, but because Preston has prior offenses, his loading is through the roof," Kent notes. "Without those priors, it’s a fine. With them, it’s a month on the sideline. We need to cap the loading on these penalties. It’s too high for something that was more clumsy than malicious. I feel sorry for the kid; he’s a great talent being weighed down by a system that’s becoming too heavy for minor infractions."

Hasler vs. Fifita: Is the Relationship Beyond Repair?

On the Gold Coast, the situation with David Fifita has taken a "fascinating" turn. After being dropped to reserve grade and reportedly playing poorly, Fifita has now been sidelined indefinitely with an ankle injury. Kent believes there’s more to the story.

"Des Hasler is a 'crash, bang, wallop' coach. If you don't do what he wants, he gets rid of you," Kent says. "I think Des is looking to move Fifita on. Their salary cap is out of whack with three forwards on nearly a million dollars each. Fifita isn't showing the commitment Des expects for that price tag. By putting him in Q-Cup and now 'indefinitely out,' Des is sending a message: pull your finger out or find another club."

Watch the full episode on Fanatics TV.