The issue is that the Rebels have categorically said that none of their players will play in the Melbourne competition.
Highlighting a range of reasons; competition not good enough, agents demand their players go elsewhere, etc etc.
The issue now being without a hope of NRC or playing against rebel contracted players the competition is now significantly devalued. So even if clubs do have talented players that aren't rebels affiliated, it's better for the player to leave if they want further opportunities.
It's a very hard situation, through many factors the competition is significantly two tiered (the first tier is not even that good) and that comes down to money, the rebels influence, geographical concentration of the rugby league competition and the school rugby situation.
Now the Rebels/Rugby Vic are stuck with a conundrum...They have spent so much money the last few years on the professional team and probably expect/need success ASAP. All the while, they have pulled 95% of the rebels support out of the Vic Comp. Imagine the realistic situation of them not winning anything in the next 5 years and they are stuck with a rebuild. They either have to a) buy more stars or b) convince Victorians who have gone interstate to better comps and setups to return.
Its all very interesting because majority of the Melbourne bred players first played Dewar shield when the comp was Rebels supported and at it’s strongest (2014-2018).
Hosea and Kailea are exceptions but Faumasilli, Leota, Uelese, Tuipolotu all played Dewar.
The Rebels will have a cross to bare at some point. But for a team struggling for home support, you would think investing locally would have benefits.