The future of dynamic fullback William Kennedy at the Cronulla Sharks has been solidified, with the popular player committing to another year with the club. This latest contract extension, signed recently for the 2026 season, puts an end to months of speculation that had many fans and analysts wondering where the Bathurst product’s career would head next. Kennedy has been in blistering form over the past two years, consistently proving his value with his electrifying play, and his ability to slot into most starting lineups in the NRL meant his contract status was a hot topic.
While Kennedy had already inked a one-year deal in October last year for the 2026 season, this new agreement extends his stay by another 12 months, providing a sense of stability for both the club and the player. This leaves his long-term future open for discussion, but for now, the focus is firmly on his commitment to the Sharks.
“It’s good to get it all done and sorted and then just focus on my footy,” Kennedy shared. “I can’t thank the club enough for giving me another year. I was used to it (the contract questions) and then had it last year as well, so I think I was getting a bit used to it. It didn’t bother me at all. It’s just good to have it done and then just keep going with footy.”
Looking ahead, Kennedy will be eligible to negotiate for a contract commencing in 2028 from November this year. However, he’s adamant that his immediate attention is on the current season. He also acknowledged that his family will play a significant role in any decisions regarding a longer-term commitment should such an opportunity arise.
There has been considerable talk suggesting Kennedy could be a valuable asset to the PNG Chiefs, a team that will be free to approach him in five months to discuss his potential involvement in their inaugural plans. This highlights the high regard in which Kennedy is held across the league.
“I think everyone would want more than one year, especially just having that security for my young family as well,” Kennedy explained. “I think it was just the best option for my family. I want to do what’s right off the field as well and then repay it in footy as well. I love this club. They took me in when I was a young player and I can’t repay them enough. I’ll always love this club. At the end of the day, you’ve got to do what’s best for your family. I think that one year here again was best for my family and then for me as well because I wanted to be with the boys that I love and care about.”
Since making his NRL debut in 2019, Kennedy has been a consistent performer for the Sharks, amassing an impressive 145 games and crossing for 56 tries. His recent performances have underscored his importance to the team.
He celebrated his contract extension with a standout performance in the Sharks’ recent clash against the St George Illawarra Dragons on Sunday. Kennedy was instrumental in his side’s victory, racking up 215 running metres, providing two try assists, and scoring a try himself.
Coach’s High Praise
Sharks coach Craig Fitzgibbon expressed his delight at retaining Kennedy, praising the fullback’s continuous improvement and his embodiment of the club’s values.
“There’s probably more noise around Will staying or not staying (every year), but that guy just gets better every year,” Fitzgibbon stated. “We’ve thankfully managed to keep Will because he gets better and better. Will is the sort of guy who epitomises our club and team. We haven’t been able to keep a lot of the guys that we love and cherish, and it’s been harder than it seems. We love and respect the players that are moving on, but we’re also thankful for a player like Will that we’ve managed to keep. It’s not lost on us week to week on how important everyone in our club is, and then Will epitomises what we’re about.”
The Sharks are currently navigating a significant transition period, with a number of key players off-contract at the conclusion of the current season. Stalwarts such as Cameron McInnes, Sione Katoa, and Jesse Ramien are among those who will be moving on for the 2027 season. Many had anticipated that Kennedy would be part of this exodus, but his decision to remain with the club, at least for another year, is a significant boost. The 29-year-old fullback has formed a potent combination with his cousin Braydon Trindall, creating a lethal left-edge attack that will continue to be a focal point for the Sharks.
Looking ahead, Kennedy and his Sharks teammates face a formidable challenge as they prepare to travel to Auckland to take on the New Zealand Warriors this Saturday.
