2023 NRL Signings Tracker: Crossland staying put at Knights; Weekes joins Raiders

2023 NRL Signings Tracker: Crossland staying put at Knights; Weekes joins Raiders

The Knights have secured hooker Phoenix Crossland through until at least the end of the 2026 season, following a standout NRL campaign for the 23-year-old.

The announcement comes after Crossland appeared 26 times for Newcastle in 2023, stepping in to become the first-choice No.9 following a season-ending injury to Jayden Brailey.

Since making his debut for the club in 2019 Crossland has notched up 60 NRL appearances.

Meanwhile versatile backline player Kaeo Weekes will join the Raiders on a two-year deal from 2024.

Canberra announced the signing of the 21-year-old from the Sea Eagles, ahead of the start of pre-season training in November.

Able to play across the backline or in the halves, Weekes adds depth to a Raiders side who lost Jack Wighton (Rabbitohs), Matt Frawley (Leeds Rhinos) and Jarrod Croker (retired) at the end of the 2023 season

Weekes said he was excited by the opportunity to add to the 12 NRL appearances he made for the Sea Eagles across 2022-23.

“I’m looking forward to moving away from home, knuckling down on footy and getting ready for the next challenge in my career,” Weekes said.

“I can play a few positions, but for me it’s really trying to prove myself and find a place in the team week in wee

The Bulldogs have secured the services of winger Blake Wilson for a further two years, having earlier extended Jacob Kiraz through to the end of 2027.

The club announced on Wednesday that Wilson, who made his NRL debut in Round 11 this season and went on to appear 11 times in the top flight, had been re-signed until at least the end of 2025.

For Kiraz the new three-year deal will see him reach seven seasons with the club who he debuted for last year.

Still at the Bulldogs, back-rower Corey Waddell will depart and return to the club he debuted with back in 2019, after signing a one-year deal for 2024 with the Sea Eagles.

The 27-year-old made 59 appearances for the Bulldogs over the past three seasons, with his signing following news that the Sea Eagles will farewell centre Morgan Harper, who joins the Eels on a one-year deal from the start of the 2024 season.