Wigan Warriors have re-signed one of their standouts from 2025 to a new long-term deal whilst addressing the ‘inevitable’ departures that will come.
Matt Peet’s side has gone about extending the contracts of many of the club’s key players, with a number of them signed until the end of the 2029 season or beyond, and Sam Walters is the latest example.
The towering forward signed from Leeds ahead of the 2024 season, but he’s played a far larger role in 2025, moving from the second row to the front as he filled in for Ethan Havard and others.
That adaptability made him one of the most vital players in the Wigan pack until he sustained a leg injury in an away win against Catalans, which has kept him out since May.
Despite being in rehab for that, Walters has signed a new contract with Wigan Warriors that will keep him with the team until the end of the 2029 season.
Wigan Warriors re-sign Sam Walters to new four-year deal
Walters told club media about his new deal: “I’m thrilled and grateful to have signed a new contract with the club. My family and I have landed here, and I believe it is the greatest environment for me to continue creating my game. I want to keep working hard to bring more success to this Club.”
Head coach Matt Peet praised the new contract and Walters, whom he is excited to work with over the next four years.
Peet said, “Sam is very professional, and I’ve enjoyed coaching him, so I’m thrilled that we’ve got him for another four years.
“Everyone will have been impressed with Sam’s performance this year. Some of the groundwork for it was laid last year via his hard work, and he has seized this opportunity with both hands. I can’t wait to see how we can fully realize his potential in the next years.”
Club CEO Kris Radlinski also remarked on Walters’ contract, however he did mention that rugby league is a pay cap sport, indicating that “some departures are inevitable” – language that could hint at future departures.
“Sam committing to us for a long period is wonderful news as his potential is huge,” Radlinski tweeted.
He’d add, “While the news should be celebrated, there is always a downside. Retaining the excellent talent that will influence the next five years is still a major goal.
“We’re happy of this squad’s achievement, and the fact that many of them are now in high demand demonstrates their caliber. However, in a salary-cap sport, keeping a winning team together is never simple.
“Success creates opportunities, and in a short playing career, we fully understand that players must make decisions in their best interests.” While some departures are inevitable, replacing like for like talent is not always possible. We remain committed to developing a strong, competitive team—but we recognize the obstacles that come with long-term success.”
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