MORE than 200 players remain off-contract ahead of next season as the player market kicks into overdrive.

Just over 50 top-tier deals have been signed so far this season.

Of those off-contract players, several are marquee talents capable of commanding $1 million plus.

The likes of James Tedesco, Blake Ferguson, Josh Dugan, Kieran Foran, Shaun Johnson, Aaron Woods Gareth Widdop and Cooper Cronk sit in the top tier, while Johnathan Thurston, Darius Boyd, Anthony Milford and Billy Slater are also still unsigned but expected to stay at their respective clubs.

Round 19

Underneath the headline acts sit the likes of Dane Gagai, Josh Reynolds, Nathan Peats, James Roberts and Aidan Guerra.

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They, too, won’t come cheap.

Still, some lower-end value for money men have re-signed in recent weeks, with the likes of Dean Whare, Kurt Capewell, Jack de Belin, Mitch Barnett and Michael Chee-Kam inking new contracts.

Mitchell Moses’ impending move has already made an impact. Source: News Corp Australia

The reality is this: The impending move of Jack Bird, Mitchell Moses and Cronk from their respective clubs at the end of the season has not so much rocked the player market at the top level as corrupted it.

In fact, Dragons director of rugby league pathways Ian Millward has branded a host of clubs as “anxious” as the recruitment puzzle pieces continue to be thrown around looking ahead to 2018.

With Moses poised to join Parramatta, Bird off to Brisbane, Cronk leaving Melbourne but yet to commit on where his future lies (or if his playing career even has one) and Foran chased by several clubs, these moves have impacted negotiations between St George Illawarra and Widdop.

Ben Ikin, Nathan Ryan and Ben Glover discuss the crazy recent twists in the transfer market and Ikin rates his top 10 off-contract stars that may land at new homes.

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While the Dragons are determined to keep the skipper in the big Red V long-term, the demand for a marquee half has sent Widdop’s asking price skyrocketing.

Millward hinted as much when speaking to Dragons TV about negotiations with the English international.

“There’s been so much activity with some players leaving — clubs (are) getting quite anxious (and) the market price has gone up,” Millward said.

“I can use it with Gareth. We’re in negotiations and then all of a sudden there’s been a couple of clubs where things have happened, they’re very anxious and things have gone up.

Gareth Widdop is congratulated by Tim Lafai after scoring a try. Source: Getty Images

“We made a decision really early we wanted a halfback and we got that done in January with Ben Hunt.

“ …We’re very comfortable that we got in early and the figure we were very comfortable with.

“We understand that in this climate at the moment it’s changing daily and we’re working with it.

“That’s why there will be some delays.”

With the clock ticking for clubs like the Tigers, Bulldogs, Storm and Newcastle to land their marquee targets — Hunt’s $6 million or even Jason Taumalolo’s $10 million deal could soon be considered bargains as the market moves towards a meltdown.

Welcome to the Pressure Gauge!

BRONCOS

Outs: Tom Opacic (ankle, Round 9), Mitchell Dodds (leg, indefinite), Benji Marshall (wrist, Round 11), Ben Hunt (hamstring, Round 12-13), Jai Arrow (thumb, Round 11), Tevita Pangai Jnr (thumb/knee, unknown), Jordan Kahu (groin, unknown)

It’s a big week for: Kodi Nikorima. With Jack Bird arriving next season, Nikorima is running out of time to prove he has a future in the Broncos starting 13. Ben Hunt and Benji Marshall are still a few weeks away from injury returns, so Nikorima needs some big performances while he’s getting plenty of time on the field.

In calculations: Joe Ofahengaue. With Tevita Pangai Jnr set to miss a month of footy with a knee injury, a place on the bench has opened up for Ofahengaue.

Crystal ball: They’re away from home when they face Souths on Friday but they’ll be feeling confident heading to ANZ Stadium and if Sam Burgess can’t get off at the judiciary they’ll be too hard to stop.

RAIDERS

Outs: Kurt Baptiste (Achilles, indefinite), Kato Ottio (ACL, Round 10-12), Clay Priest (unknown)

It’s a big week for: Joey Leilua. The damaging right centre has hit top form and is now in serious contention for the right centre spot for the Kangaroos in the May Test. Every performance between now and when the team is read out is critical.

In calculations: Clay Priest. The tough forward was a late withdrawal for Dunamis Lui for Canberra’s win over the Warriors on Saturday, with the reason for his absence still a mystery. If he has only suffered a minor injury you would expect him to come back into the side as soon as he’s available.

Crystal ball: Canberra have hit their straps over the past few weeks and they’ll be far too strong for Manly on their home turf.

BULLDOGS

Outs: David Klemmer (ankle, Round 8), Will Hopoate (fractured eye socket, Round 8-9), Richie Kennar (foot, Round 9-11), Asipeli Fine (lung, Round 9), Chase Stanley (knee, Indefinite), Lachlan Lewis (shoulder, Round 10)

It’s a big week for: Michael Lichaa. His game time was limited last week with Moses Mbye moving to hooker when Matt Frawley entered the mix. It was a move that worked which makes you think — how long until Des Hasler moved Mbye into the role fulltime?

In calculations: Matt Frawley. He’s started on the bench for the last two weeks but the Bulldogs have looked a much better side once he’s come on. The halfback must be a chance to push into the starting line up soon.

Crystal ball: The Dogs look to have got themselves out of their slump and are playing some impressive footy at times. Their forward pack is too strong for the Tigers, so if they can get on top early on, it could get ugly.

SHARKS

Paul Gallen has the Sharks premiership defence singing. Picture: Gregg Porteous Source: News Corp Australia

Outs: James Segeyaro (arm, Round 12-13), Daniel Mortimer (knee, Round 8-10)

It’s a big week for: The goal line defence. The Sharks have put in huge efforts two weeks in a row to keep oppositions with strong attacking players scoreless. The test may come this week when they play a weaker side in the Titans. Will be difficult for the premiers to keep their guard up.

In calculations: Daniel Mortimer. The utility is due back from a knee injury at some stage in the next couple of weeks and may be an option to come onto the bench while James Segeyaro is injured.

Crystal ball: The Sharks have sent a message and the rest of the competition has heard it. The premiers will be far too strong for a weakened Titans outfit but they won’t keep their opponent tryless for a third straight week.

TITANS

Outs: Pat Politoni (arm, round 8), John Olive (pectoral, indefinite), Jarryd Hayne (ankle, Round 8), Will Zillman (calf, indefinite), Agnatius Paasi (shoulder, Round 9-11), Nathaniel Peteru (foot, indefinite), Kevin Proctor (hamstring, Round 8), Konrad Hurrell (knee, Round 8), Max King (hand, Round 11-13), Dale Copley (back, Unknown), Chris Grevsmuhl (groin, Round 9-10)

It’s a big week for: Nathan Peats. The hooker was outstanding in his first game back, with his performance against the Broncos immediately springboarding him back into Origin discussions. If he can back it up with another strong performance against the premiers he will be right back in the race for the NSW No. 9 jersey.

In calculations: Kevin Proctor and Konrad Hurrell. Two of the Gold Coast’s best signings in recent years have barely been sighted in 2017. Both are good chances to get over niggling hamstring and ankle concerns respectively.

Crystal ball: Neil Henry’s side has several players due back from injury and they’re going to need every one of them against the form side of the competition in the Sharks. It’s hard to see them having enough firepower to match the premiers in their own backyard.

SEA EAGLES

Manly’s Blake Green (centre) will again be a target against the Raiders. Source: Getty Images

Outs: Billy Bainbridge (shoulder, indefinite), Martin Taupau (rib, Unknown), Jarrad Kennedy (neck, indefinite), Lloyd Perrett (sternum, indefinite)

It’s a big week for: The left edge. It had as many holes as a Swiss cheese in the first half against the Storm — conceding an 18 point lead in as many minutes at a ground that was once feared by visiting teams. The combination of Blake Green, Brian Kelly and Jorge Taufua needs to improve massively in defence to stop the likes of Elliott Whitehead, Joey Leilua and Jordan Rapana this week.

In calculations: Nate Myles. Was rested for Manly’s clash with the Storm and the Sea Eagles missed his defensive steel. Will likely come back into the side for the injured Lloyd Perrett and will need to be at his best.

Crystal ball: Manly’s second half comeback against the Storm showed plenty of spirit but their leaky defence in the first half is a huge concern against an attacking side as lethal as Canberra. So much to fix and so little time to do it, so it’s hard to tip anything but a Raiders win.

STORM

Outs: Tohu Harris (foot, Round 9), Ryley Jacks (fractured cheekbone, unknown)

It’s a big week for: Billy Slater. Showed genuine glimpses of his best in carving up the Sea Eagles, but still pushing uphill to regain his Kangaroos jumper. Another big showing might just force Mal Meninga’s hand though.

In calculations: Will Chambers returns to the fold after missing the action at Manly due to suspension. He and Cam Munster — who will slot into the five-eighth spot left by Riley Jacks — are big inclusions in the backline.

Crystal ball: Despite internal concerns over their own form they’re far too consistent for the Warriors, even if they are Melbourne’s bogey side.

KNIGHTS

Outs: Rory Kostjasyn (throat, indefinite), Dylan Phythian (knee, indefinite), Jarrod Mullen (suspension, indefinite), Sam Mataora (Knee, Round 8-9), Jack Cogger (Pelvis, Round 16), Bradie Smith (Shoulder, unknown), Jamie Buhrer (foot, round 12-14)

It’s a big week for: Trent Hodkinson. Produced his worst performance of the season against the Roosters, not great timing considering the club has joined the race for Kieran Foran. Needs to bounce back.

In calculations: Anthony Tupou. The veteran was rested last week and without Buhrer and Kostjasyn for some time the Knights could use an old head in the pack.

Crystal ball: It’s a tough trip up north even if the Cowboys are missing a host of stars. They’ll be coming back empty-handed.

COWBOYS

Outs: Jake Granville (Fibula, Round 9-12), Josh Chudleigh (ACL, season), Antonio Winterstein (broken arm, Round 8), Matt Scott (Knee, Season), Lachlan Coote (calf, Round 8), Shaun Fensom (ankle ligament, Unknown), Johnathan Thurston (calf, Round 9-10)

It’s a big week for: Michael Morgan. He’s been called out by no less than Cooper Cronk despite being a reluctant No. 7 in Johnathan Thurston’s absence. Cronk’s not advocating Morgan as JT’s long-term replacement, but says adding a bit of game management to his resumé couldn’t hurt. Not for nothing, Cronk himself started his career in a similar utility role as the Cowboys star.

In calculations: Lachlan Coote. He’s missed a handful of games with a calf injury but could make a timely return to slot into the halves while Thurston is sidelined.

Crystal ball: A struggling Knights outfit is just what the doctor ordered for the Cowboys as they deal with a chronic injury toll.

EELS

Outs: Bevan French (PCL, Round 10), Isaac De Gois (concussion, indefinite), Honeti Tuha (ankle, Round 10), Jeff Robson (calf, Round 10), Matt Woods (shoulder, Round 13), Frank Pritchard (ankle, Unknown), Beau Scott (calf, unknown), Siosaia Vave (face, Round 8)

It’s a big week for: Clinton Gutherson. On current form Brad Arthur can’t leave him out of his starting backline, even if Mitchell Moses arrives this week. His next month could well dictate where he lands in the run on 13 with Bevan French still to return to the mix.

In calculations: Kenny Edwards. After missing the first seven weeks of action due to suspension for off-field issues, the backrower is ready to make his return. With Beau Scott injured, the door has opened up for Edwards.

Crystal ball: Should be mighty wary of a smarting Panthers side, and weren’t at their best either in downing the Wests Tigers. Should be a fascinating western Sydney derby.

PANTHERS

Outs: Sam McKendry (knee, indefinite), Josh Mansour (knee, mid-season), Bryce Cartwright (lower leg, Round 8), James Fisher-Harris (shoulder, unknown)

It’s a big week for: James Tamou. Backed up his best performance in Panthers colours against Souths with a quiet showing in the heavy loss to Cronulla. Tamou wasn’t alone in that regard, but he was brought to the club to lead, and without a Matt Scott to follow hasn’t hit his straps.

In calculations: Bryce Cartwright. After missing several weeks with an injury to his lower leg, the backrower is nearing a return. It would be timely for the Panthers who look likely to be without James Fisher-Harris due to a shoulder injury he picked up against Cronulla.

Crystal ball: Too talented to stay down for too long, and the thumping from the Sharks may just have been the wake-up call they needed. Still, it won’t be easy against a gutsy Parra mob.

RABBITOHS

Sam Burgess needs to get off at the judiciary to play this weekend. Picture: Gregg Porteous Source: News Corp Australia

Outs: Greg Inglis (ACL, indefinite), Aaron Gray (knee, indefinite), Jack Gosiewski (knee, Round 12), Brett Greinke (ankle, early rounds), Connor Tracey (ACL, indefinite), Sam Burgess (suspension, TBC)

It’s a big week for: John Sutton. The Souths junior is off-contract and aware Souths’ salary cap is being stretched. The two second half tries that swung their Good Friday game to Canterbury saw him caught out in defence and he looked off the pace.

In calculations: Hymel Hunt. One of their better performers over the last 18 months returns from a lengthy ban for a downright stupid shot on Newcastle’s Brendan Elliot. He owes his teammates an immediate return to form.

Crystal ball: Tough ask against a Broncos side brimming with firepower. Can’t see them troubling the Queensland powerhouses.

DRAGONS

Outs: Will Matthews (dislocated hip, late season), Drew Hutchison (knee, season), Yaw Kiti Glymin (shoulder, late season), Levi Dodd (knee, Season)

It’s a big week for: Josh Dugan. The fullback was in sensational form before he picked up an injury but it looks like the off-contract Test star will return next week. It’s a timely return with the Anzac Day clash with the Roosters a special day.

In calculations: Kurt Mann. With Dugan poised to return, Jason Nightingale will shift back to the wing which puts Mann’s position in the team in doubt. The utility back has found consistency in his game this season — whether it’s starting or playing the No. 14 role. Last week he ran for over 100 metres and broke six tackles.

Crystal ball: On current form, it’s mighty hard to look past the Red V for this one.

ROOSTERS

Outs: Nat Butcher (shoulder, indefinite), Dylan Napa (ankle, Round 10), Ryan Matterson (ankle, unknown)

It’s a big week for: Latrell Mitchell. After sitting out last week’s win over the Knights to rest up, the centre is ready to return. His fill-in, Joseph Manu, had a blinder in his place and looks every bit the first grader and with Mitchell struggling to find consistency in his game so far this season, round eight looms as a crucial one for his development.

In calculations: Paul Carter. He started last week with Jake Friend battling illness and the utility forward delivered. Having found himself 18th man most weeks, the former Titans and Rabbitohs bad boy is ripping in as he fights to secure a regular bench spot in the NRL side.

Crystal ball: The Anzac Day clash is always a massive one. With the Dragons firing on all cylinders, this could go down to the wire and based on form the Saints will be ‘marching in’.

WARRIORS

Outs: Ben Matulino (knee, Round 8), Manu Vatuvei (knee, Round 8)

It’s a big week for: Albert Vete. The prop has missed out on a place in the top squad for several weeks now and being off-contract this year, it’s important for the 24-year-old to get back into the side. Earlier in the year the Titans were keen on the young forward but have since cooled on their interest.

In calculations: Bunty Afoa. An exciting player who runs with purpose, Afoa has made four appearances this season. Not cited in the NRL since Round 4, the 20-year-old was 18th man last week and knocking on the door for a first grade return.

Crystal ball: Out of form, against the Storm and in Melbourne on Anzac Day, there could be more pain for Stephen Kearney’s men.

TIGERS

Outs: Luke Brooks (hamstring, Round 8-9), Matt Ballin (knee, indefinite), Jamal Idris (hamstring, indefinite)

It’s a big week for: Luke Brooks. Expected to return from a hamstring injury, the halfback will be welcomed back into the side after the team just fell short to the Eels on Monday.

In calculations: With Jamal Idris out with a hamstring injury, Ivan Cleary could call on Jordan Rankin to make his first appearance of the year but Michael Chee Kam is the obvious choice. That would open up a place on the bench for a forward.

Crystal ball: Unless they fix some troubling second half fade-outs, which look to be a fitness based issue as much as anything, Canterbury should be too strong.