Wigan Warriors star signs new four-year deal as CEO notes ‘inevitable’ departures

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 have gone about extending the deals of many of the club’s star players with a number tied down to the end of the 2029 season or beyond, and Sam Walters has become the latest example.

The towering forward signed from Leeds ahead of the 2024 season but he’s played a far bigger role in 2025, moving from the second-row into the front as he stepped up in the absence of Ethan Havard and others.

That versatility made him one of the more important players in the Wigan pack until he suffered a leg break in the away win over Catalans, something which has sidelined him since May.

Despite being in rehab for that, Walters has now signed a new deal which will see him stay with Wigan Warriors until the end of the 2029 season.

Wigan Warriors re-sign Sam Walters to new four-year deal

Speaking on his new deal to club media, Walters said: “I’m delighted and grateful to have signed a new deal with the club. My family and I are settled here and I believe this is the best place for me to keep developing my game. I want to continue to work hard towards bringing more success to this Club.”

Head coach Matt Peet praised the new deal and Walters, who he expressed excitement about working with over the next four years.

Peet said: “Sam is very professional and I’ve loved coaching him and of course I’m delighted that we’ve got him for a further four years.

“Everyone will have been impressed by Sam’s form this year. Some of the foundations of it were laid last year with how hard he worked, and he has grasped this opportunity with both hands. I can’t wait to see how we can maximise his potential in the coming years.”

Club CEO Kris Radlinski also commented on Walters’ deal but did speak about the fact rugby league is a salary cap sport, confirming that “some departures are inevitable” in words that could tease future exits.

“Sam committing to us for a long period is wonderful news as his potential is huge,” Radlinski said.

He’d add: “Whilst the news must be celebrated, there’s always a flip side. Retaining the exceptional talent that will shape our next five years remains a top priority.

“We’re proud of the success this squad has achieved, and it’s a testament to their quality that many are now in high demand. However, in a salary cap sport, keeping a winning group together is never easy.

“Success brings opportunity, and in a short playing career, we fully respect 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 building a strong, competitive team—but acknowledge the challenges that come with sustained success.”