The Comeback Trail: Josh Schuster Targets 2027 NRL Return
Former Manly Sea Eagles playmaker Josh Schuster is plotting a remarkable NRL comeback, reportedly shedding 33 kilograms and setting his sights on a return to the top flight.
The 25-year-old, who has not played since 2024, is currently in discussions with multiple clubs and is prepared to prove his worth through a train-and-trial deal.
"I'm training so hard to get ready for a pre-season opportunity. My goal is to get back into the NRL for next year."
A Fresh Start & A New Mindset
Schuster's career hit a significant roadblock. He was released by Manly in April 2024 while still on an $800,000 per year contract. He subsequently joined the South Sydney Rabbitohs under Wayne Bennett, but took an indefinite break for mental health reasons and was released at the end of the 2024 season.
Now, he is ready to rebuild. According to Code Sports, at least two clubs are considering offering Schuster a train-and-trial deal starting November 2025. Schuster himself has stated he is willing to wait for the right opportunity and is determined to earn a roster spot on merit.
From Prodigy to Cautionary Tale
Schuster burst onto the scene in 2020 at just 19 years old, earning high praise from NRL legend Benji Marshall, who called him "the best I've seen."
However, his early success was followed by well-documented struggles. Reports of poor training habits and work ethic surfaced, and his weight became a major issue. Reflecting on his fall, Schuster admitted he "lost himself" and became "too comfortable" after his initial rise.
Now, with a drastic physical transformation and a renewed hunger, the former prodigy is hoping to write a new chapter. His manager has confirmed talks are underway with "a few clubs" as Schuster aims to be back in the NRL for the 2027 season.