‘Spurned interest from other interested suitors’: Jye Gray turns down R360 to stay at Souths
The NRL has landed a significant blow in its fight against R360 after an emerging star turned down big money to stay in the league.
Livewire fullback Jye Gray has turned down interest from R360 to sign a new three-year deal with the Rabbitohs in a huge boost to the code in its fight with the rebel competition.
Gray was one of the first players linked with a move to the new league on huge money, but South Sydney announced on Monday that he was staying put after he “spurned interest from other interested suitors”.
Despite only being 170cm and 78kg, Gray has punched above his weight in his 32 NRL appearances with brave carries and sensational defence that has earnt him widespread respect from his peers.
The 21-year-old led Dally M voting last season and was one of South Sydney’s best when he filled in for Latrell Mitchell, with questions now as to whether the rep star will shift to left centre to keep Gray at the back.
NOT GOING ANYWHERE 🔒âœï¸ pic.twitter.com/q1cJvbbxY6
— South Sydney Rabbitohs 🰠(@SSFCRABBITOHS) November 24, 2025
“Jye was the best player in the NRL competition for the first half of last season and his performances all year for us were outstanding,” Rabbitohs head of recruitment and retention Mark Ellison said.
“His performances were so good that he attracted interest in his services elsewhere; however, he sees his future is at the South Sydney Rabbitohs, and that is something very exciting for everyone associated with the club.
“He is safe under the high ball, he returns the ball with great speed, his footwork is mesmerising, and his defence is inspiring.
“He is a great character around the team. He is a player that his teammates love to play with and his coaches love to coach.
“We could not be happier to have Jye extending with us and we are all looking forward to continuing our work with him as his performances continue to inspire everyone around him.”
Gray was picked in the Prime Minister’s XIII squad earlier this year and looms as a key cog in South Sydney’s attack given his speed and footwork.
“I’m really grateful to Souths for giving me the opportunity to stay at this great club,” he said.
“I’m determined to repay the faith they have shown in me by putting my best foot forward over the next few years to help us achieve our goals.
“I love playing for this club and its members, and I can’t wait to get back out onto the field in the red and green.”
