NRL 2026 Signings Tracker: The Biggest Off-Season Moves That Will Shape the Competition

The NRL off-season player market delivered. Every club made moves. Here is the full tracker.

Record-breaking contracts. Shock code switches. Expansion raids. The 2026 off-season has been one of the most dynamic in recent memory, and the landscape of the competition has shifted significantly as a result.

Headline Signings

The biggest deal: halfback Dylan Brown to the Newcastle Knights on a staggering 10-year contract reportedly worth $13 million. That signing instantly elevated the Knights into premiership contention and resets the odds for the entire competition.

The Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs bolstered their forward pack with Leo Thompson and Fletcher Baker, compensating for the departures of Reed Mahoney and Kurtis Morrin. The South Sydney Rabbitohs added experienced forward Adam Elliott — 173 games of NRL experience heading to Redfern.

North Queensland Cowboys signed hooker Soni Luke on a one-year deal. The 29-year-old Tongan international spent four seasons at the Panthers, including their 2023 premiership campaign.

Perth Bears Making Early Moves

The Perth Bears do not enter the competition until 2027. They are already raiding rival squads. Melbourne Storm stars Nick Meaney and Tyran Wishart have both signed with Perth — Wishart on a five-year deal, Meaney committing for three years through 2029. The 2026 season is their final year at the Storm. Sources confirm more signings are imminent.

Code Switches

Angus Crichton leaving the Sydney Roosters after 2026 to join the NSW Waratahs and chase Wallabies World Cup selection. He follows Joseph Suaalii, Joey Manu, and Mark Nawaqanitawase from league to union. The trend is real, and it is not slowing down.

Across the League

Brisbane Broncos reshaped their roster after a disappointing 2025 — targeting outside backs and forward depth. Canberra Raiders signed experienced halves cover to support Jamal Fogarty. Cronulla Sharks added a damaging edge forward to replace off-contract departures.

Manly Sea Eagles focused on retaining their young core. New Zealand Warriors made shrewd off-season additions from rival clubs. Parramatta Eels entered a new era under coach Jason Ryles, recruiting heavily to rebuild their halves and spine. Penrith Panthers managed the salary cap with precision despite losing key players to expansion and rival offers. Wests Tigers continued their patient rebuild with targeted signings aimed at climbing off the bottom.

Extensions and Renewals

Gold Coast Titans secured dual commitments from Jojo Fifita and Tino Fa’asuamaleaui. Dolphins locked in versatile forward Kurt Donoghoe through 2028.

For the latest player movements and contract news, bookmark the Australia Football news page.

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LF — Breaking news correspondent, australiafootball.com