EXCLUSIVE: Andrew Johns Advocates for NRL Transfer Window Following DCE and Dylan Brown Contract Controversy

Andrew Johns has urged the NRL to implement a post-season transfer window following the recent turmoil surrounding the contracts of Daly Cherry-Evans and Dylan Brown.

Both players have been in the spotlight after they stunned fans with announcements of their exits from their long-standing clubs.

While Cherry-Evans’s next destination remains uncertain for the upcoming season, Parra supporters have discovered that Brown has secured a lucrative $13 million move to Newcastle.

Wayne Bennett amplified calls for a transfer window on Thursday, criticising the NRL for allowing the season to start with such “self-destructive” distractions.

“It serves no purpose for the game, no benefit for the clubs, and it’s simply not right. I truly wish we’d rectify it,” Bennett commented during his post-match address on Thursday.

“In Aussie rules, this kind of mess doesn’t occur; they’re our key competitors.”

“The focus has shifted entirely to the actions of a couple of players off the field… It simply shouldn’t be happening. We need to prevent these distractions.”

In contrast, the AFL operates a transfer window that opens post-grand final, allowing all 18 clubs to trade players and draft picks in a structured 10-day period.

This system was praised by Johns, who emphasised that the majority of sports worldwide use a similar approach to facilitate player movements.

While discussions about a transfer window often highlight the need for players to manage their transitions, Johns believes the league should take the initiative.

“We need to resolve this issue,” he stated on Wide World of Sports’ Immortal Behaviour.

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“Whether it’s the implementation of a transfer window or not, other sports handle this effectively.”

“Some claim that players need time to sort out schooling arrangements for their children or to find rental accommodation… but let’s just take action.

“I believe a transfer window should occur at the end of the season or even post-Origin.

“The players’ association seems hesitant about the transfer window as they want players to have adequate time to organise their moves, like from Manly to Newcastle. But honestly, it’s achievable.”

Johns acknowledged that early signings tend to “frustrate fans” who are left uncertain about the future of their teams.

“Visualise being a Parramatta supporter,” Johns reflected.

“They’ve had Dylan Brown for seven years, and suddenly he’s leaving.”

“There are already cries from former players and supporters urging him to depart immediately.

“Such early signings only leave a sour taste in the mouths of fans.”