It was a promising, yet disappointing season in 2024 for the St. George Illawarra Dragons.
After multiple years of cellar-dwelling, the team’s first year under head coach Shane Flanagan saw them become a genuine contender to play finals football, with a number of late season chances to book a spot in the top eight.
But after being unable to execute these, the Red V saw their finals drought extend, and a number of questions remain about the club’s future heading into 2025.
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Which players have left the St. George Illawarra Dragons in 2024?
At least six Dragons players will depart the club before the 2025 season, with more still rumoured to be considering their options.
Jack Bird will leave the team, and head to the Wests Tigers to play under Benji Marshall, while Max Feagai is set to head north to the Dolphins.
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Savelio Tamale will move to the Raiders, while the Dragons opted to release Paul Turner.
But easily the most significant loss for the team is Zac Lomax, the home-grown star who was awarded both State of Origin and Dally M Team of the Year honours in 2024, following his shift to the wing.
Lomax leaves the Dragons to join the Eels, with his relationship with Flanagan reportedly beyond repair – the young star will now be part of Jason Ryles’ debut squad in Parramatta.
Ben Hunt is also rumoured to be once more considering leaving Wollongong, but nothing has been made official for the team’s star halfback.
Who have the St. George Illawarra Dragons signed for 2025?
While the Dragons have lost some big names for next season, they have also gained others, such as North Queensland star Valentine Holmes.
Holmes looks set to be Lomax’s replacement, both positionally and in goal-kicking, as he reunites with former head coach Flanagan.
Damien Cook is another big addition for the team, the veteran hooker returning home after extended time with the South Sydney Rabbitohs.
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While no further signings have been announced, there is also significant speculation that the Dragons are the front-runners in the race to sign recently available Eels fullback Clint Gutherson, as Flanagan leans fully into an experienced core.
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