From November 1, clubs can begin formal negotiations with players who are out of contract at the end of 2024.
But by securing Croker, their best-and-fairest player in 2022, Manly have retained their biggest name who had been set to hit the open market.
Croker, who has played 104 of his 105 first-grade games for the Sea Eagles, has signed a two-year deal.
Originally a half in Canberra's junior system, Croker arrived at Manly in 2018 and has been a regular first-grader since 2020.
Manly hooker Lachlan Croker has scored 18 tries in 105 NRL games, including six in 2023.
He became starting hooker after Danny Levi left the club before the 2021 season and has become noted for his work rate in defence.
"Lachlan has been one of our most consistent players over the last two seasons. It's great for us to be able to extend him out for a further two years,'' coach Anthony Seibold said.
"He has played over 100 games for our club now and is a great team man. You know what you are going to get with 'Crokes'."
North Queensland have re-signed veteran prop Jordan McLean on a one-year contract that could see him through to retirement.
The former Melbourne middle man will be 33 shortly after next season ends, but has proven he is still up to the rigours of first grade, starting 22 games this year.
He averaged 111 run metres in 2023 and bolsters a middle rotation that also includes Jason Taumalolo, Reuben Cotter and Griffin Neame.
Elsewhere, Newcastle have confirmed the signing of Penrith winger Tom Jenkins on a two-year contract from 2024.
Stuck behind Brian To'o, Sunia Turuva and Taylan May, the Panthers had already confirmed Jenkins would not be at the club next year.
He looms as a replacement option for Dominic Young, who has joined the Sydney Roosters.
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