With rumours intensifying around Daly Cherry-Evans’ potential move to the Sydney Roosters next season, young playmaker Sam Walker is stepping back into the NRL spotlight with a massive statement to make.
The 21-year-old returns to action against the Newcastle Knights on Saturday in what could be a defining moment for his career—and the Roosters’ future.
Cherry-Evans, the veteran Manly halfback, is widely tipped to join the Roosters in 2026. But given his pedigree and leadership, most assume the club wouldn’t sign him to play second fiddle. That puts the pressure squarely on Walker, a natural No.7 himself, to prove he’s ready to steer the team now and into the future.
Walker’s return comes at a crucial juncture. The Roosters have been plagued by late-game collapses, losing five of their seven games this season despite leading at the 60-minute mark. Only the Knights have scored fewer points in the final 20 minutes, and the Roosters have conceded the most in that same period.
With finals hopes still alive, the Roosters need a composed game manager as much as an attacking spark. This is Walker’s chance to show he’s more than just a flashy talent—that he can control the tempo, execute under pressure, and close out tight contests.
If he delivers and reignites the Roosters’ charge for the premiership, the club may be forced to ask: Do they really need DCE at all?
Saturday’s showdown isn’t just about two points on the ladder—it’s about the battle for the Roosters’ No.7 jersey, and Sam Walker is ready to make his case.
