**Several Prominent Welsh Rugby Players Still Without Clubs Ahead of New Season**
As preparations for the 2025/26 rugby season ramp up across Europe, a number of high-profile Welsh players find themselves facing an uncertain future, still seeking new clubs. With the United Rugby Championship and Gallagher Premiership set to kick off in just two months’ time, the clock is ticking for these seasoned internationals and domestic standouts. Meanwhile, most professional outfits, especially those in France where the competitive calendar starts earlier, are deep in pre-season training. Yet, for a handful of Welsh stars, contracts for the coming year remain elusive.
One of the most notable names currently without a deal is Liam Williams. The 34-year-old fullback, celebrated for his tenacious performances at both club and international level, has been absent from action since a knee injury forced him off in the opening round of the last Six Nations against France. Having completed his period with Saracens, Williams is actively searching for a new employer. Reports suggest his credentials are being circulated among several French Pro D2 clubs, and there is speculation about a possible link with Stade Niçois Rugby, a third-division French side backed by significant investment. With the recent injury to Elliot Daly at Saracens, some wonder if a return to his former club could materialise as they look to plug gaps in their back line.
Despite advancing years, Williams’ experience and game sense would make him a valuable addition for teams seeking steady hands in pressure situations. His track record speaks for itself, but he is not alone in his quest for a fresh start. Another headline-making player facing a crossroads is Regan Grace. The 28-year-old former rugby league try machine endured a torrid spell with injuries after his much-anticipated switch from St Helens to Racing 92. Two Achilles ruptures in quick succession, the first suffered while still in league, kept him from ever making a senior appearance for the Parisians. Brief stints followed at Bath and then Cardiff, punctuated by further fitness setbacks, although he did feature for Wales in their midweek win against Queensland Reds on the 2024 tour.
An intriguing twist for Grace could be a return to rugby league, where he remains highly regarded following a prolific spell with St Helens—scoring 75 tries in 128 Super League matches. However, the door is still open for rugby union opportunities, depending on his ability to prove his durability.
Also navigating free agency is Ashton Hewitt. After a decade of service at Dragons, the 30-year-old winger bids farewell as the second-highest try scorer in the region’s history. Injuries have hampered his international ambitions, but Hewitt insists that he is fit and feels he has more to offer, both on and off the pitch. His pace and finishing are considered among his strongest assets, and whispers of interest from the English Championship and French second tier have yet to materialise into a contract.
Hewitt’s recent comments underscore his determination: “I feel I’ve got something to prove. I want to make a difference, and I’m prepared for life outside pro rugby but not ready to step away yet.” His perspective highlights how elite athletes must balance career aspirations with pragmatic acceptance in a volatile job market.
Meanwhile, Steff Evans, a central figure at the Scarlets for over a decade, is also searching for his next challenge. Renowned for his dynamic running and clever support lines, Evans amassed 74 tries for the Scarlets and contributed to their PRO12 title win in 2017. A serious Achilles injury last season curtailed his involvement, leaving his future open. Any club seeking a dangerous winger with a nose for the try line could do worse than consider Evans as an acquisition.
Overseas, former Cardiff and Dragons lock Cory Hill finds himself in a similar predicament. After stints with Yokohama Canon Eagles and most recently Secom Rugguts in Japan’s third division, Hill is on the market once again. The 33-year-old, who can also operate as a blindside flanker, returned to the Wales wider training squad last year, even captaining the team on tour, though a past disciplinary issue and resulting controversy cloud his prospects.
As the start of the new season draws near, these players’ experiences shed light on the ever-shifting landscape of professional rugby. Injuries, contract uncertainties and external events can swiftly alter even the most established careers. Nevertheless, many of these Welsh stalwarts are determined to extend their playing days, with their wealth of experience and proven quality ensuring that interested clubs still have the chance to snap up invaluable talent.
For supporters, the hope remains that these athletes will find suitable homes and continue to display their skills at the highest level. As pre-season progresses, the coming weeks will prove decisive in shaping not only their destinies, but also the competitive contours of European club rugby for 2025/26.