Jahrome Hughes has signed a reported $4 million extension to remain with the Storm, turning down huge potential offers from expansion teams to stay in Melbourne.
The 30-year-old has re-signed with the Storm until 2030 and reportedly turned down more lucrative offers to be the marquee signing for the NRL’s expansion clubs, the Perth Bears and the Papua New Guinea venture.
The reigning Dally M player of the year is established as one of the game’s premier playmakers and could have attracted around $1.5 million a season to make the move.
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Hughes was signed until the end of 2026 but extended for another four years giving the side a discount on his services at around $1m a year.
“I’m delighted to extend my contract with Storm for another four years. I absolutely love this club, it’s become a second family to me, and Melbourne feels like home,” Hughes said in a statement via the Storm.
Jahrome Hughes celebrating after scoring a try. NRL Photos
“This group of players, coaches, and staff is incredibly special, and I’m determined to achieve more success in the purple jersey. I’m excited for what lies ahead and the memories still to come.”
The 30-year-old is currently sidelined with a dislocated shoulder but is expected to make a full recovery in time for the finals.
Hughes said he chose his “family’s happiness” over money. He had also reportedly considered a move back to Queensland in the past.
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“I think the thing for me is just where I’m going to be happy. Myself and my wife, we are having a kid at the end of the year,” he said on Tuesday.
“You don’t want to be going somewhere for money and not enjoying your life. It was the value of my happiness and my family’s happiness.
“You look at the football side of things, the dream is to chase premierships and I think Melbourne’s in a good window for that and has always been ever since I’ve been here, and even before I came here. I looked at those sorts of things as factors in the contract.”
Hughes is one of the game’s premier players. Robert Cianflone via Getty Images
“I have won a premiership and was lucky enough to win a Dally M last year. I never thought I’d be able to do those things.
“I am very grateful to be where I am. So just to show them a bit of loyalty as well was always something that was in the back of my mind.”
Hughes has made 165 appearances for Melbourne and has scored 68 tries for the club since joining the team in 2017.
He previously spent time at the Cowboys and Titans.
