NRL 2017: Will Hopoate’s re-signing with Canterbury increases pressure on other big name Bulldogs

Hopoate’s re-signing on a new three-year deal was announced on Thursday morning, locking the ex-NSW Origin rep into the blue and white until the end of 2020.

With Kieran Foran and Aaron Woods en route for 2018 on lucrative deals, Hopoate’s retention adds another sizeable spend to Canterbury’s payroll.
The club’s spending is understood to have raised eyebrows at the NRL, with concerns over how the Bulldogs will get under next year’s indicative $9.14 million salary cap, which is subject to the ongoing CBA discussions.
Earlier in the year Hopoate had been considered a likely casualty of Hasler’s looming roster overhaul.
But strong form since returning from injury and removing his religious grounds clause to sit out Sunday games have him now set for a long-term stay under the Bulldogs boss.