<h2>Rabbitohs Release Lewis Dodd After $2M Disaster – Four Pointer Summary:</h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>- &nbsp; South Sydney Rabbitohs release English halfback Lewis Dodd after just one season, ending his $2 million three-year contract early.</p> <p>- &nbsp; Dodd played only six NRL games and will join the Catalans Dragons in the Super League with a costly six-figure settlement.</p> <p>- &nbsp; The release creates salary cap flexibility for the Rabbitohs to potentially pursue Gold Coast's David Fifita.</p> <p>- &nbsp; South Sydney endured a disappointing 2025 season, finishing in 14th place.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2>Costly Exit for Rabbitohs and Dodd</h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>The Lewis Dodd experiment at South Sydney has reached an expensive conclusion, with both parties agreeing to terminate his contract after just 12 months.</p> <p>Originally signed as a long-term solution in the halves, Dodd's NRL journey proved far more challenging than anticipated.</p> <p>The 23-year-old managed just six first-grade appearances throughout the 2024 season, with only one start in his preferred halfback position.</p> <p>That solitary starting opportunity came in round 21 against Cronulla, where Dodd lasted just 68 minutes before being substituted.</p> <p>The majority of his season was spent in NSW Cup, highlighting the significant gap between Super League and NRL standards.</p> <p>Coach Wayne Bennett consistently preferred other options in the halves, including Jack Wighton, Cody Walker, Jamie Humphreys, Jayden Sullivan, Latrell Mitchell, Jye Gray, and Ashton Ward. This depth of talent left little opportunity for Dodd to establish himself at the elite level.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2>Super League Return Beckons for Dodd</h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Dodd's anticipated move to Catalans Dragons represents a fresh start in familiar territory.</p> <p>The French-based club will offer him a 12-month contract where he's expected to partner Canterbury half Toby Sexton.</p> <p>Despite his NRL struggles, Dodd brings considerable experience from five Super League seasons with St Helens.</p> <p>His return to European rugby league provides an opportunity to rebuild his reputation and demonstrate the talent that initially attracted South Sydney's attention.</p> <p>The move also benefits Catalans, who secure a proven Super League performer still in the prime of his career. At 23, Dodd has time to develop further and potentially earn another shot at the NRL if his form improves.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2>Salary Cap Relief Opens Recruitment Doors</h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>The financial implications of Dodd's release extend beyond the six-figure settlement. South Sydney gains crucial salary cap flexibility that could prove instrumental in pursuing high-profile targets like Gold Coast back-rower David Fifita.</p> <p>This roster management also aligns with other strategic moves, including discussions to fast-track Manly forward Davvy Moale's planned 2027 arrival.</p> <p>The Rabbitohs' willingness to absorb significant financial losses demonstrates their commitment to building a competitive squad under Bennett's guidance.</p> <p>The salary cap relief couldn't come at a better time, with several key players' contracts requiring attention and potential marquee signings on the horizon.</p> <p>This flexibility allows the club to be more aggressive in the player market while maintaining compliance with NRL regulations.</p> <p>Dodd's departure will undoubtedly rank among South Sydney's most disappointing and expensive recruitment decisions in recent memory.</p> <p>However, his return to the Super League offers redemption opportunities for a player whose best rugby league years likely remain ahead of him, albeit away from Australian shores.</p> <p>The Rabbitohs can now focus on utilising their newfound salary cap space more effectively, potentially turning this costly mistake into a strategic advantage for future seasons.</p>