Newcastle Knights prop Jacob Saifiti has opened up about how the retirement of his older brother, Daniel, has provided a powerful motivation to force his way back into the New South Wales State of Origin side.
A Brotherly Bond and a Shared Dream
The Saifiti brothers, who have been teammates at the Knights for several seasons, shared a mutual ambition to represent the Blues together. However, Daniel's decision to hang up his boots at the end of the 2024 season has left Jacob with a renewed sense of purpose.
“It’s definitely given me a bit of a kick along,” Jacob Saifiti told reporters. “We always talked about playing Origin together, and I know he would have loved to have been out there. Now I want to do it for both of us.”
Overcoming Recent Form Slump
The 27-year-old front-rower has experienced a dip in form over the past 12 months, which saw him fall out of favor with Blues selectors. After making his Origin debut in 2021 and featuring in subsequent series, Saifiti was overlooked for the 2024 campaign.
“I’ve had to take a good hard look at myself,” he admitted. “I wasn’t playing the footy I know I’m capable of. But Dan’s retirement has made me realize how quickly it can all end. I don’t want to have any regrets.”
Training with Renewed Vigor
Saifiti has returned to pre-season training with the Knights in outstanding shape, determined to recapture the form that made him one of the most feared props in the competition. His aggression and work rate have been notable, impressing new Knights coach Adam O'Brien.
“Jacob has come back with a real fire in his belly,” O'Brien said. “He’s been a leader in our sessions and is setting the standard. He knows what he needs to do to get back to that level.”
The Path Back to Origin
With the 2025 State of Origin series on the horizon, Saifiti is well aware of the competition for spots in the NSW forward pack. Players like Payne Haas, Junior Paulo, and Reagan Campbell-Gillard have established themselves as mainstays, but Saifiti believes his best is yet to come.
“I know I’ve got to be consistent week in, week out for the Knights,” he said. “If I can do that, I’ll give myself every chance. Playing for NSW is the ultimate, and I want to experience that again.”
Legacy and Family
Daniel Saifiti, who played 150 NRL games for the Knights, has been a constant source of support for his younger brother. Despite retiring, Daniel remains involved in the game and is working as a development coach at the club.
“He’s still around the place, and he’s still pushing me,” Jacob said. “He wants to see me succeed, and I want to make him proud. That’s what drives me every day.”
As the 2025 NRL season approaches, Jacob Saifiti is on a mission. His brother’s retirement has not diminished their shared dream—it has only strengthened his resolve to achieve it.
