2024 NRL Signings Tracker: Smith signs a new deal with the Roosters; Manly extends Trbojevic.
The Sea Eagles have inked a three-year extension with back-rower Ben Trbojevic, securing his presence until the conclusion of the 2027 season. Since his debut in 2021, the 22-year-old has played 26 games for Manly, emerging from the Sea Eagles Pathways Program. With 12 first-grade games under his belt last season, Trbojevic is now vying for a starting position in 2024, impressing coach Anthony Seibold during the preseason.
Seibold commended Trbojevic’s progress, stating that the extension aims to recognize not only his current improvement but also the potential growth expected over the next three years. The move ensures the continuity of key players like Trbojevic, Tolu Koula, Haumole Olakauátu, Taniela Paseka, Josh Schuster, and the Trbojevic brothers, Jake and Tom.
Simultaneously, the Roosters have secured Billy Smith on a fresh three-year contract, binding the strike centre to the Tricolours until at least the end of 2027. Despite facing injuries since his debut in 2019, the 24-year-old had a breakout season in 2023, playing 15 games and scoring four tries. Coach Trent Robinson praised Smith’s dedication and resilience, expressing satisfaction with having him committed for another three years.
The Dragons, on the other hand, announced the signing of Sea Eagles winger Christian Tuipulotu on a two-year deal, effective immediately. Tuipulotu, previously contracted with Manly until 2025, was released after four years with the club, where he scored 14 tries in 33 NRL games. The Dragons, having suffered a setback with Corey Allan’s ACL injury, view Tuipulotu as a valuable addition to bolster the backline.
England forward Thomas Burgess is set to return home, signing a three-year Super League deal with Huddersfield at the end of the current season. Burgess, a cornerstone for the Rabbitohs, aims to focus on winning another premiership with South Sydney before his move. Meanwhile, the Broncos have secured grand final hat-trick hero Ezra Mam on a five-year deal, keeping the 21-year-old at the club until the end of the 2029 season. Broncos coach Kevin Walters praised Mam’s commitment and versatility, expressing excitement about their future endeavors together.
Lastly, the Dragons have added former Kiwi international Raymond Faitala-Mariner to their roster, granting him an immediate release from the Bulldogs. The 30-year-old forward, with 114 games of first-grade experience, joins the Dragons for the 2024 and 2025 seasons. This move follows the Dragons’ earlier signing of playmaker Jesse Marschke to strengthen their halves for the 2024 season. The updated NRL Telstra Premiership rosters for the 2024 season have been officially released, detailing contract lengths and player options.
