Terrell May makes stunning decision to join Wests Tigers as NRL wooden spooners load up for 2025

Wests Tigers have won the race for Terrell May after the Sydney Roosters unexpectedly told the in-demand prop his services were no longer required.

AAP understands May has verbally agreed to join the Tigers on a three-year deal, adding to a burgeoning list of high-profile recruits to join the NRL wooden spooners in 2025.

The 25-year-old forward was told to find another club by the Roosters in October, despite excelling in 2024 and being named in the Rugby League Players’ Association team of the season.

The news came as a shock to those close to May, given he had signed a two-year contract extension with the Tricolours just six months earlier.

The Roosters confirmed his release on Monday.

“Terrell is not only a talented footballer, but also a good person and we would like to thank him for his contribution to the club,” Roosters recruitment boss Daniel Anderson said.

“Terrell will always remain part of our Sydney Roosters family, and he leaves with our very best wishes for the future.”

Canterbury and St George Illawarra were also in the hunt for May, but the Tigers became front-runners for his signature when the Bulldogs reportedly withdrew their interest at the weekend.

It is another major fillip for Tigers coach Benji Marshall.

He had a difficult rookie season as an NRL head coach as his side finished bottom of the table for the third season in a row.

But hopes are high the former Tigers five-eighth can turn around the club’s fortunes with an exciting roster at his disposal.

May will join the club following the additions of four-time premiership-winning playmaker Jarome Luai and winger Sunia Turuva from Penrith, Cronulla front-rower Royce Hunt and Dragons centre Jack Bird.