2024 NRL Signing: Wests Tigers snare Hunt | Cotter extends with Cowboys

The NRL off-season has kicked off with a flurry of significant player signings and contract extensions. Here’s a rundown of the latest developments:

Wests Tigers Secure Royce Hunt on Three-Year Deal

The Wests Tigers have bolstered their forward pack by signing Royce Hunt on a three-year contract starting next season. The Sharks have granted the Samoa international a release from the final year of his contract in 2025, allowing him to take up this multi-year opportunity. Wests Tigers coach Benji Marshall praised Hunt as a “great leader” who will be instrumental in mentoring the club’s younger players.

Cowboys Lock Down Reuben Cotter Until 2028

In a major boost for the North Queensland Cowboys, Kangaroos forward Reuben Cotter has extended his contract until the end of the 2028 season. The Sarina Crocodiles junior, who has been with the Cowboys since his teenage years, has become a cornerstone of their forward pack. Despite early career setbacks with ACL injuries, Cotter has emerged as a key player, contributing significantly both at the club and representative levels.

Parramatta Eels Extend J’maine Hopgood’s Contract

The Parramatta Eels have secured Maroons Origin forward J’maine Hopgood with a contract extension through to the end of the 2027 season. Hopgood, who was already contracted for 2025, has re-signed for an additional two years. Despite a recent back injury, Hopgood expressed his enthusiasm about continuing with the Eels and his commitment to contributing further to the team’s success.

Kyle Feldt to Depart for St Helens in 2025

North Queensland’s all-time leading try scorer, Kyle Feldt, will be joining St Helens on a two-year deal starting in 2025. Feldt, renowned for his pivotal try in the 2015 grand final, will be replacing Tommy Makinson, who is moving to Catalans. Feldt expressed his excitement about the move and the opportunity to add to his career accolades.

Cowboys Secure Extensions for Jake Clifford and Semi Valemei

The Cowboys have agreed to one-year contract extensions with halfback Jake Clifford and outside back Semi Valemei for the 2025 season. Clifford, who returned to North Queensland this year after stints in Newcastle and the UK, has been praised for his contributions. Valemei, who has impressed since joining mid-season in 2023, continues to show promise.

Storm Re-Sign Joe Chan and Alec Macdonald

The Melbourne Storm have announced contract extensions for prop Joe Chan and forward Alec Macdonald. Chan, who is part of the Storm’s first father-son duo, and Macdonald, Chan’s roommate and close friend, will both continue with the Storm. Chan, who joined from the Catalan Dragons, expressed his gratitude and excitement about building his future with the club.

Knights Extend Tom Cant’s Contract

The Newcastle Knights have re-signed back-rower Tom Cant for an additional two seasons through to the end of 2026. Cant, who has shown strong form in the NSW Cup, is expected to make a significant impact in the NRL.

Eels Sign Isaiah Iongi from Panthers

The Parramatta Eels have announced the signing of fullback Isaiah Iongi from the Panthers on a three-year deal starting in 2025. Iongi, who made a notable debut this season, is anticipated to enhance the Eels’ backline.

Wests Tigers Sign Emerging Talent

The Wests Tigers have also signed seven emerging players, including Lachlan Broederlow on a two-year deal and Tim Johannssen on a two-year extension. Jaxson Rahme, Kobie Wilson, Vaka Aho, Tristan Hope, and Eiden Ackland also join the squad, aiming to develop their skills and make an impact in the future.

Roosters Retain Key Players

The Sydney Roosters have locked down NSW Origin stars Connor Watson and Spencer Leniu with contract extensions through to the end of 2027. Coach Trent Robinson commended Watson for his leadership and commitment to the team.

Rabbitohs Add Emerging Talents

The South Sydney Rabbitohs have signed utility forwards Lachlan Hubner and Max McCarthy, along with five-eighth Gerome Burns. Hubner and Burns will reunite with coach Wayne Bennett, while McCarthy joins from the Sharks’ Jersey Flegg.

Dragons Sign Valentine Holmes

The St George Illawarra Dragons have secured representative outside back Valentine Holmes on a three-year deal starting in 2025. Holmes, who has played 198 NRL matches and has a strong international record, is expected to be a valuable addition to the Dragons.

These moves set the stage for an exciting 2025 season, as teams make strategic additions and extensions to strengthen their rosters and chase NRL glory.