NRL 2026: Phil Rothfield believes Jarome Luai will be the most overpaid player ever, reasons why, PNG Chiefs, Samoa, Triple M, nrl news, reaction

Journalist Phil Rothfield has criticized the PNG Chiefs' lucrative deal for Jarome Luai following his performance in Samoa's defeat to Australia. Luai agreed to a three-year deal worth $3.6 million in salary cap funds plus up to $3 million in third-party agreements. Rothfield placed blame on Chiefs general manager Michael Chammas, arguing that Luai will become the most overpaid footballer in rugby league history given his age and recent form.

Rothfield claimed Luai is not a $1.2 million franchise player after disappointing outings for Wests Tigers and Samoa. However, former NRL prop James Graham defended the signing, noting that Luai was a crucial initial coup who helped attract other stars like Brian To'o, Joey Manu, and Zac Lomax to the new franchise.