EXCLUSIVE: Andrew Johns proposes unexpected Super League stint for departed Bulldogs halfback Toby Sexton ahead of NRL comeback

NRL legend Andrew Johns believes that out-of-favour Bulldogs halfback Toby Sexton could emerge as the first No.7 for one of the two new teams entering the NRL. He has advised the 24-year-old to consider a stint in England to hone his abilities and gather critical match experience before returning to Australia’s top competition.

Sexton finds himself pushed out of Belmore at the end of the season, following the signing of rising star Lachlan Galvin, who is anticipated to claim his spot.

Reportedly, there has been minimal interest from other NRL clubs in acquiring the playmaker, even as his team currently leads the NRL ladder.

Johns was taken aback by the lack of interest surrounding Sexton’s potential signing.

“I find it hard to believe that there’s little interest, given the scarcity of quality halfbacks,” he remarked during his segment on Wide World of Sports’ Immortal Behaviour. “I’ve followed Toby closely during his time at the Titans and always sensed there was talent waiting to be unleashed.”

“Players develop at different rates, and he appears to have found his stride at the Bulldogs.”

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Johns speculated that St George Illawarra might benefit from signing Sexton, despite the Dragons already fielding an abundance of playmakers for the forthcoming season.

The Perth Bears are set to join the NRL in 2027, currently without players under contract, while Papua New Guinea is anticipated to launch a team in 2028.

Johns, who briefly showcased his skills for Warrington in England’s Super League back in 2005, believed that a stint in Europe could serve Sexton well.

“The Dragons might be a suitable fit, and then there’s Perth and PNG. Perhaps he could gain valuable experience in the Super League for a year,” Johns suggested. “Look at Jackson Hastings and Brodie Croft; both players excelled overseas and even clinched the Super League’s prestigious Man of Steel award. The competition offers solid footy and has less intense scrutiny than the NRL, which could be beneficial for Toby. He’s certainly too talented not to attract interest.”

Another casualty of Canterbury’s acquisition of Galvin is likely to be Reed Mahoney, who has reportedly been informed that he can explore other options.

With rising talent Bailey Hayward eyeing the No.9 jersey, Johns believes the Bulldogs may also target young Tigers hooker Tallyn Da Silva.

Da Silva is free to leave Concord and is bound to attract attention from several NRL clubs as they prepare for the next season.

“I reckon he would make an excellent addition,” Johns commented regarding Da Silva. “He shares a close friendship with Lachie Galvin, which could influence his decision if the Dogs are indeed interested in signing him. There are discussions about Reed Mahoney being on the way out.”

Securing Da Silva would enable Canterbury to arguably possess one of the most promising young spines in the league, particularly with Matt Burton firmly established in the five-eighth role.

29-year-old Connor Tracey has been a resilient presence in the NRL but has elevated his performance this season after being appointed fullback by Cameron Ciraldo.

If the Bulldogs clinch a premiership, it will be a bittersweet moment for Sexton and Mahoney, who might find themselves leaving despite achieving success.