The Dragons have agreed to let polarising star Zac Lomax depart the club at the end of the 2024 season, despite the fact he was contracted until the end of 2026.
St George Illawarra said in a statement that the final two years of the talented centre's contract would be "terminated" and revealed the club would make "no financial contribution" to his 2025 or 2026 seasons.
That allows the $800,000-a-year star "the freedom to explore opportunities with other clubs effective immediately", the club said.
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The Dragons added that they would only consider a release before the season's end if "a player of considerable standing" was offered in return.
New Dragons coach Shane Flanagan has been playing Lomax on a wing instead of in the centres, which has reportedly left him disgruntled.
"By finalising this decision now, it provides both Zac and the club with clarity regarding the future, allowing us time to strategise for the upcoming seasons," said Dragons chief executive Ryan Webb in the club statement.
"This arrangement enables the Dragons to focus on refining our top-30 roster and utilising additional cap space, while Zac can pursue his future endeavours with another club."
Lomax's talent is undoubted — at one stage he was a member of Brad Fittler's NSW State of Origin squad — but fluctuations in form have frustrated fans and the NRL coaches he's had: Paul McGregor, Anthony Griffin and Flanagan.
"Zac has consistently demonstrated his talent and dedication to the club, especially in the face of external noise," Flanagan said.
"We have full confidence that he will maintain his high level of performance for the remainder of the season, benefiting all those associated with the Dragons."
Lomax made his NRL debut in 2018 and has since chalked up 97 top-grade games.
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The Dragons are placed 13th on the ladder ahead of round five, in which they will face the Knights in Newcastle on Friday night.
They are aiming to score a second win in succession after producing an upset against Manly in Wollongong on Saturday afternoon, defeating Anthony Seibold's side 20-12.
The struggling club is aiming to reach the NRL finals for the first time since 2018.
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