Tom Dearden denies Cowboys exit rumors, reaffirms commitment

North Queensland Cowboys co-captain Tom Dearden has publicly addressed and dismissed speculation about his potential early departure from the club, reaffirming his commitment until his contract expires in 2029. Dearden met with media on Monday to counter reports that he was seeking to leave for personal reasons, citing his pregnant partner's residence in Sydney.

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There's been a fair bit of speculation getting around at the moment. There's been a lot of suggestions that I wanted to move or leave the club. That's not the case at all.

"There's been a fair bit of speculation getting around at the moment. There's been a lot of suggestions that I wanted to move or leave the club," Dearden stated. "That's not the case at all. I don't feel like I should have to get up here and explain myself against speculation." He characterized the rumors as "a whole lot of nonsense" and expressed a desire to keep his private life, including his partner's pregnancy, out of the public eye.

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It's just been a whole lot of nonsense. I've got my private life with a partner who's pregnant and I'd like for that all to be kept private.

Dearden emphasized his unwavering commitment to the Cowboys, stating, "I've always been committed to the Cowboys and none of that has ever changed." He expressed disappointment that the speculation had impacted his personal life, causing his partner and family to field questions. The halfback acknowledged that the rumors had created unnecessary stress for his family.

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I've always been committed to the Cowboys and none of that has ever changed, so it's a bit disappointing that my partner and family have had to deal with a lot of questions.

Adding to his challenging season, Dearden has played only once since suffering a syndesmosis and ankle fracture in round 10. This injury sidelined him from the State of Origin series. He returned in round 20 against the Dolphins but subsequently tore a muscle in his shin on the other leg during that match. Despite the setbacks, Dearden is targeting a return for the Cowboys' round 26 home game against the Wests Tigers, following their round 25 bye. The team is currently in ninth position.

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It's been a frustrating year having to sit out because I love representing the Cowboys.