Josh Schuster could return to the NRL as soon as mid-2026, after several clubs were quietly impressed by his confidence on the James Graham Bye Round podcast last week – and the fact that he’s dropped 33 kilograms and has been “training so hard” recently.
The 24-year-old has been on an indefinite hiatus from rugby league since late 2024, but is now looking for a way to play again after telling his story on Graham’s podcast. He told Graham he is now “keen to get back and prove I can do it.”
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“People in club-land saw his confidence and commitment, and it looks like he may get a contract before June 30,” Tartak, the young gun’s advisor, told Nine.com.au.
“At first, when James reached out and asked to do the podcast, we said ‘no.’ But I’ve known James for a long time – he said he would handle it sensitively, and it turned out great… Josh was honest and raw and owned his mistakes in the past.”
Tartak also confirmed that Schuster is ready to play again as soon as he has a signed deal with any NRL organisation. “He’s training great and could be playing again in a few weeks if we can work out a deal,” his advisor explained.
“There are a couple of clubs interested,” Tartak added.
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Schuster played 50 games for Manly between 2020 and 2024 before moving to South Sydney for the 2025 season. He played no first-grade games, however, and walked away from the game permanently during that deal. Whether the Rabbitohs or Sea Eagles would want to speak to Schuster about a deal has not yet been confirmed.
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Interestingly, Tartak was banned by the NRL last year and is still midway through a 12-month suspension. He is only advising Schuster, he’s said.
Should the 25-year-old sign with a club, it will have to be before June 30.
