Both players completed the 2026 campaign on one-year contracts and entered the off-season without immediate announcements regarding new club destinations. Their exits follow a series of earlier roster adjustments at Belmore as management shapes the playing group ahead of pre-season preparations.
Kade Dykes’ Injury-Interrupted Tenure and NSW Cup Form
Kade Dykes joined the Canterbury Bulldogs from the Cronulla Sharks in August 2025. The fullback’s time at the club was heavily affected by long-term injuries during his early development, including an anterior cruciate ligament tear in 2023, cartilage surgery in 2024, and a ruptured patellar tendon sustained in April 2025. Across three years, these physical setbacks restricted him to nine NSW Cup appearances.
However, the 24-year-old showed strong form during the 2026 NSW Cup season, making 17 appearances. He contributed 10 tries, nine try assists, and 46 tackle breaks while averaging 97 metres per match. Dykes finished the final four games of the reserve-grade campaign strongly, registering over 132 running metres in each fixture and scoring six tries during that stretch. When Dykes was originally signed, management valued his versatility across fullback and the halves, though he ultimately did not secure a regular first-grade position at the club.
Jake Turpin’s Departure Closes 2024 Chapter
Jake Turpin’s exit concludes a stint that began in 2024 following previous spells with the Brisbane Broncos and the Sydney Roosters. The hooker signed a contract extension with Canterbury late last year after turning down a two-year offer from the Manly Sea Eagles. During his time in Belmore, opportunities in the top grade remained limited, as he made three first-grade appearances in 2025 and seven during the 2026 season.
The departing pair join a growing list of squad members leaving the club ahead of the 2027 season. Previously confirmed departures include Josh Curran, Lipoi Hopoi, Jonathan Su’a, and Bronson Xerri, while Kurt Mann agreed to join the St George Illawarra Dragons for 2027. Additionally, Marcelo Montoya retired midway through the 2026 season to transition into a coaching and wellbeing role within the organisation.
Current Roster Status and Remaining Spots
With these confirmed exits, the Canterbury Bulldogs currently have 25 players formally contracted for their 2027 top 30 roster, leaving five positions open for recruitment or development promotions. Club officials have not yet announced timeline details for filling the remaining vacancies as off-season training preparations approach.