Sad truth revealed as James Roberts walks away from Souths

James Roberts’ NRL career is in limbo after sacrificing $500,000 by leaving the Rabbitohs, and the sad reality of his exit has been laid bare.

James Roberts is leaving the Burrow.

South Sydney is committed to looking after James Roberts’ welfare even though he is leaving the club and putting his NRL future in doubt.

It was revealed last week the 27-year-old is parting ways with the Rabbitohs on compassionate grounds despite having one more year remaining on his contract.

Roberts missed much of Souths’ run to the preliminary final this year, managing just six games because of a pectoral injury. He also struggled with the isolating effects of COVID-19.

The Sydney Morning Herald reports when the Bunnies signed Roberts from Brisbane midway through 2019, they did so with clauses in his contract allowing them to sack the blistering centre should he put a foot wrong off the field.

Roberts had previously been sacked by Souths for off-field offences and the Bunnies wanted to safeguard themselves against a repeat.

The Herald reports Souths had the chance to enforce those clauses earlier in the year when Roberts’ commitment waned, but stuck by the former NSW star. The report claims the Rabbitohs agreed to pay Roberts for the rest of the year even when they didn’t have to, following his contract breaches, because his welfare was their top priority.

Roberts has a well-documented history of mental health struggles, stemming from a difficult upbringing.

James Roberts in full flight is something special.

Souths have reportedly spent more than $100,000 they didn’t have to on Roberts to ensure his wellbeing. That figure includes $30,000 to provide psychological support when he spent time at a Sydney rehabilitation facility do deal with his struggles during coronavirus.

Roberts stood to earn $500,000 had he stayed with Souths in 2021, but opted to walk away. His future in the NRL is now in doubt as we wait to see whether another club chases his signature.

Speaking after his departure from the Rabbitohs was confirmed, Roberts said: “With the support of Souths, I am working closely with professionals to get myself healthy and into a position where I can play my best footy and support my family.

“Souths have been very supportive during this period, helping me to focus on the recovery from my pec injury and providing support for (partner) Anna, me and the kids.”

The explosive back has played 149 NRL games since his debut in 2011, representing the Rabbitohs (across two stints), Panthers, Titans and Broncos.

He enjoyed a breakout season in 2018, earning his first Origin jersey and helping the Blues to a series win over Queensland.