Hunter Talent Secures Future in Super League
A key piece of the Leeds Rhinos' forward pack has committed his long-term future to the English Super League club. Cooper Jenkins, a former Newcastle Knights junior and Maitland Pickers forward, has signed a two-year contract extension that will keep him at Headingley until at least the end of the 2028 season.
This new deal comes on the back of a highly successful maiden campaign for the 24-year-old, who played 24 games for the Rhinos in the 2025 season after joining on an initial two-year contract. Jenkins has clearly made a strong impression, with the club moving quickly to secure his services for an additional two years.
Building Something Special in Leeds
Expressing his delight at the new deal, Jenkins highlighted the faith the club has shown in him. "I wasn't too sure what to expect when I first came over, but the club has put a lot of work into me and shown me a lot of faith," Jenkins said in an official club statement.
He added, "I was happy to repay the club with a good year... and by extending for a couple more years because it's our new home now and we love it." Jenkins also expressed optimism for the team's future, noting that the squad, which included many new faces and was coached by former Parramatta Eels mentor Brad Arthur, now has a solid base to build upon for the coming seasons.
Leeds Rhinos sporting director Ian Blease praised Jenkins as a "tremendous addition" to the squad, citing both his on-field performances and his positive presence within the group. Jenkins joined Leeds following a standout 2024 season in the Queensland Cup with the North Devils, where he was part of their premiership-winning side.
Bradbury Embarks on New NRL Journey with Titans
Meanwhile, another promising talent from the Hunter region is beginning a fresh chapter in his rugby league career. Max Bradbury, a 21-year-old front-row forward and Wangi Wangi junior, has landed at the Gold Coast Titans for the upcoming pre-season.
Bradbury, who is yet to make his NRL debut, has joined the Titans on a train-and-trial deal after spending the past few seasons within the Cronulla Sharks system. The uncapped forward made 18 appearances for the Newtown Jets in the NSW Cup this year, working to overcome a couple of injury-disrupted seasons.
His move to the Gold Coast follows his signing with Queensland Cup outfit Tweed Heads Seagulls. Bradbury's path to the Titans has a connection to the Knights; he was originally traded to the Sharks as part of the deal that saw fullback Lachlan Miller move to Newcastle ahead of the 2023 NRL season.
Knights Pre-Season Kicks Into Gear
In other news related to the Newcastle Knights, the club's pre-season preparations are now in full swing. A further group of players, including former Sydney Roosters half Sandon Smith, have commenced training this week. This follows the first batch of Knights players who returned to the training paddock earlier in November.
The club's international representatives, including Dylan Brown, Phoenix Crossland, Dom Young, and Bradman Best, are not expected back at training until mid-December, following their post-season breaks.
