You don't fill a roster 9 months in advance. And you also don't make a big deal out of depth signings. Which means it is far too early to be losing our minds about this.
I would have loved to keep Hopgood. But he's been in our Top 30 since 2020, and only managed 6 games. He's an out and out Lock. And we have the best Lock in the world blocking his path. Additionally, we've got a core set of Props who refuse to get injured. We would have made him a reasonable offer based on his standing in the club, and if Parra want to offer him more money and/or a better opportunity to play NRL he would be mad to stay with us.
Until I hear evidence that says we didn't try to re-sign him, I won't be laying the boot into our management over this.
I reckon he'll play for QLD one day, but he won't do it playing NSW Cup.