Bulldogs powerbrokers have reportedly slammed the suggestion club legend Josh Jackson retired to ease salary cap pressure.
Even with Jackson’s reported $650,000 salary trimmed off their cap for the 2023 season, Corey Allan, Luke Thompson and Kyle Flanagan are on the chopping block according to The Daily Telegraph.
Reports suggest chief executive Aaron Warburton and chairman John Khoury aren’t fully aware of the club’s salary cap situation.
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Bulldogs general manager of football Phil Gould is reportedly in control and has signed Viliame Kikau, Ryan Sutton, Reed Mahoney, Andrew Davey, Hayze Perham and Franklin Pele.
Jackson played 241 games for the Canterbury-Bankstown club across 11 seasons and his decision to retire came down to his body not being able to cope with the rigours of another NRL season — not salary cap pressure.
The Bulldogs reportedly want to keep the veteran prop around the club and put his exercise science degree to use.
However, the Bulldogs will need to be granted NRL permission to hire him in a different role.
Jackson had only one more year to run on his contract and his salary could be used to upgrade Matt Burton’s contract.
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The Bulldogs will likely have to hand Burton a significant pay packet for next season as part of their extension talks.
Burton has an option in his favour for 2024 and from November 1 can negotiate with rivals.
His first full NRL season at five-eighth saw him earn a New South Wales and Kangaroos debut, albeit both in the centres.
The 22-year-old is currently earning around $500,000-a-season and the club has already reportedly tabled a four-year extension at $750,000-a-season, but will likely need to increase their offer to secure his services.
Bulldogs chairman John Khoury acknowledged that Jackson’s decision has “not been easy” and honoured his stellar career.
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“Josh has long been at the heart of the Bulldogs,” Khoury said in a club statement.
“He has led this great Club with pride. He has bled blue and white, and played for his state and for his country.
“We know this decision has not been an easy one and while it is a sad day, there is no doubt that despite not lacing up the boots and running out in 2023, he will continue to inspire the Bulldogs team and our community for many more years to come.
“We cannot thank him enough for everything he has done for our Club, but now it is time to reflect on and celebrate his wonderful career.”
