Storm plan for life after Big Three

Jul 24, 2017 - 1:48 AM Melbourne have laid the foundation for life after their big three by securing the long-term futures of next generation stars Brodie Croft, Brandon Smith and Jahrome Hughes.

The Storm on Monday announced the re-signing of Croft, who is considered the likely replacement for departing halfback Cooper Cronk next year, until the end of 2020.

Smith, long touted as the heir apparent to captain and hooker namesake Cameron, was given a mammoth five-year deal, while back-up fullback Hughes penned a two-year extension.

Current No.1 Billy Slater remains unsigned for 2018 and has given no indication on whether he intends to play on another season.

Injured centre Cheyse Blair also inked a new three-year deal.

Storm football director Frank Ponissi hailed the signatures of all four players as the club plans for life after veteran trio Cronk, Smith and Slater.

"These re-signings are a significant part of our retention strategy. All four players will form an integral part of our playing group for the years to come," Ponissi said.

""Brodie, Brandon and Jahrome are exciting young players who showed our fans during the Origin period just what they are capable of.

"They are young men who came to Melbourne in search of an NRL opportunity and now they comfortably call this city their home.

"They will continue to work closely with our coaches to ensure they reach their full potential in the purple over the years to come."

Ponissi is also confident Blair, who was the team's starting centre for most of this year, will bounce back from his season-ending ankle injury.

"Cheyse has worked incredibly hard to cement himself in the starting side and we have every confidence he will continue to apply that same work ethic to his rehab and ensure he returns to the field fit and ready for next season," he said.

The signings come after the club also re-signed Will Chambers, Jesse and Kenny Bromwich, Dale Finucane, Nelson Asofa-Solomona and Joe Stimson.

Ryley Jacks and Christian Welch also recently extended their contracts.

Source: AAP