Raiders prop **Josh Papali’i**—fresh from setting the record as the most-capped player in Canberra history—has confirmed he is **undecided about his future beyond 2025** ([indailyqld.com.au][1]). Despite his deep roots in the club and recent milestone, Papali’i says he still has “a lot to offer… whether that’s in the NRL or Super League” ([indailyqld.com.au][1]).
At 33, the veteran is weighing his desire to play on with the reality that Canberra may not offer him another contract after this season. While overseas options, including in the Super League, are appealing, Papali’i hasn’t ruled out continuing in Australia.
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### What This Means for the Raiders
* **Leadership void ahead:** If Papali’i departs, Canberra will lose not only a front-row enforcer but also a key mentor in the locker room.
* **Recruitment spotlight on forwards:** The club may need to target experienced props or consider promoting promising internal talent like Trey Mooney or Tom Starling.
* **Cap space flexibility:** Offloading Papali’i’s sizable contract could free up funds for other priority areas, such as bolstering the pack or retaining rising talent.
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