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Dane Gagai has hinted this season could be his last as he reflects on a long NRL career.
Dane Gagai has signalled he may be nearing the end of his NRL career, with the veteran centre admitting he is uncertain about his future beyond this season.
The 35-year-old was seen swapping jerseys with James Tedesco after Newcastle's loss to the Sydney Roosters at Allianz Stadium on Sunday.
Tedesco later explained the gesture, noting Gagai is collecting jerseys from players he has competed alongside and against, amid uncertainty over his playing future.
Gagai later confirmed he is taking stock of his career, acknowledging he is unsure whether this will be his final season. He indicated a desire to keep playing but recognised that contract decisions are not always within a player's control.
Across a 15-year career, Gagai has played 321 NRL games, including 223 appearances for Newcastle across two stints and 92 for South Sydney.
He debuted with the Brisbane Broncos in 2011 and has been a consistent presence at representative level, featuring in 23 State of Origin matches for Queensland and seven Tests for Australia.
His contract situation remains uncertain. Gagai is off contract beyond 2026 and faces increasing competition from younger outside backs, including Fletcher Hunt and Kyle McCarthy.
Newcastle had initially decided against offering him a deal for 2026 before reversing course following strong fan support.
Former NRL player Justin Horo revealed he spoke to Gagai post-match, with the centre explaining he is trying to appreciate his career while he can.
He has begun targeting specific jersey swaps, including one with Daly Cherry-Evans, as part of that process.
While retirement is not yet confirmed, Gagai's comments underline the uncertainty facing experienced players late in their careers.
A potential recall to the Queensland Origin side also remains a possibility, given injury and form concerns among current options.