The Cheese Jumps Ship: Brandon Smith’s Shocking Mid-Season Switch to Rival Rabbitohs Shakes NRL

The ongoing shake-up at the Sydney Roosters has continued with the departure of star hooker Brandon Smith, who has been granted an immediate release to join the South Sydney Rabbitohs. Smith, widely known as “The Cheese,” was originally set to join Souths in 2026 on a two-year deal, but both clubs have now agreed to fast-track the move, with Smith passing a medical on Monday and beginning his rehabilitation with the Rabbitohs this week.

Still recovering from an ACL injury sustained late last season, the 28-year-old is expected to return to action in around seven weeks. Despite his current injury status, South Sydney were eager to bring in the seasoned forward early, seeing his leadership and playing style as vital assets for their finals push.

Roosters coach Trent Robinson addressed the decision on Tuesday, explaining that salary cap considerations and the emergence of current hookers Connor Watson and Zach Dockar-Clay played key roles in the move. “It was a business decision,” Robinson said. “We’ve got strong depth in the position, and the timing aligned with our broader roster management.”

Smith joined the Roosters in 2023 after a successful tenure with the Melbourne Storm. While his form initially fluctuated, he found consistency late last season before being sidelined by injury. Roosters head of recruitment Daniel Anderson paid tribute to Smith’s contribution, noting he had been playing “some very good football” prior to his injury.

Reflecting on his move, Smith emphasized his desire to contribute meaningfully to his new club. “This contract isn’t about me,” he stated. “It’s about my career and me wanting to win games and put the club before myself.” This marks a more mature outlook from the always-colorful forward, who has become known as much for his off-field charisma as his on-field toughness.

Smith’s mid-season exit comes in the wake of speculation surrounding fellow teammate Dom Young, whose own future at the Roosters has been under scrutiny. Reports suggest Young is considering an early exit to return to the Newcastle Knights, though those discussions appear to have stalled.

As the Roosters navigate a season of transitions, South Sydney will be hoping Smith’s early arrival can provide the spark they need in the business end of 2024.