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Where could NAS land following Storm departure?
Sam Kosack • October 9th, 2025 7:04 pm
The Melbourne Storm have confirmed the release of Nelson Asofa-Solomona with the veteran prop to explore new opportunities.
Asofa-Solomona still has two years to run on a mega $850,000-a-year deal but his release will help the Storm’s tricky financial situation.
With the likes of Cameron Munster, Ryan Papenhuyzen, Jahrome Hughes, and Harry Grant taking up large chunks of the Storm’s salary cap, and a significant upgrade needed to keep rising half Jonah Pezet at the club, Asofa-Solomona’s release makes sense for the club.
The New Zealand-international has played 215 games for the Storm, and won two premierships, but has struggled for game time in recent years with injuries and suspensions keeping him out.
The giant prop was awarded life membership of the Storm recently after debuting with the club in 2015.
With his departure, the Daily Telegraph's Michael Carayannis believes that Asofa-Solomona could be making a move to Rugby Union.
“You would have to assume (he's on) $850,000 a year, you'd have to assume there was a nice little, hefty payout for Nelson (Asofa-Solomona) to move on,” Carayannis said on SEN 1170 Afternoons.
“I'm going to say rugby union (will be Asofa-Solomona’s destination).
“I don't know if it's R360, but I think it'll be rugby union of some description.
“This is not to say that he's not going to stay in league. I haven't heard of a club that's in for him.
“I wouldn't be surprised if he got a million dollars.
“They were desperate for him to go.
“Clubs have had the opportunity to sign him for two seasons, and for whatever reason… he just hasn’t moved, but now he’s officially out the door.”
Asofa-Solomona spoke to The Daily Telegraph after the news broke.
“I have been committed to the Storm since signing as a junior in 2011,” Asofa-Solomona said through The Daily Telegraph.
“With over 10 years now at the top-level and given all I have achieved with the club, I have chosen to step away and consider other opportunities and new challenges.
“I’ve loved my time in Melbourne. I’m very thankful to all the players, coaches, and staff that I had the privilege to work alongside during my time at such a prestigious club.
“I also want to give a special thank you to the greater Storm family and fans for all their love and support over the last decade.”
