St George Illawarra captain Ben Hunt has re-signed with the NRL club until the end of 2025, putting to bed speculation he could be joining Canterbury.
The 32-year-old halfback was already on contract with the Dragons until the end of 2023 but had met with Bulldogs general manager of football Phil Gould about being a part of the strong roster he is building for the future.
The news of Hunt's two-year extension with the Dragons is a huge boost for the Red V as he has been the club's best player in recent seasons.
Hunt has spoken of his desire to continue to be coached by Dragons mentor Anthony Griffin who first worked with him back in 2008 with the Brisbane Broncos under-20s.
"It's a pleasing day for my family and I," Hunt said. "I am very happy we were able to come to an agreement as I always wanted to stay with the Dragons. I am excited by the direction the club is headed."
The Dragons have not played finals football since 2018 and Hunt will be vital to their plans to move up the ladder.
"Ben's on-field performances speak for themselves," Dragons general manager of football Ben Haran said.
"His leadership off the field and around the club will be crucial in the ongoing development of our NRL squad."
The Dragons playmaker is set to tour England with the Kangaroos for the upcoming Rugby League World Cup where he will operate as a utility.
It is a role he has performed with distinction for Queensland. Playing at hooker, he was one of the Maroons' best in this year's 2-1 State of Origin series win.