RL 2026, Newcastle Knights, best 17, injuries, Kalyn Ponga, Dylan Brown, signings, 25-year drought

Author: Cameron Mee NRL Reporter
Timestamp: Mon 26 Jan 2026, 08:01 AM

Newcastle fans are desperately hoping the arrival of Dylan Brown will trigger a new era for the Knights as they look to climb the ladder in 2026.

The playmaker moved to the Hunter after signing a lucrative 10-year contract and will carry the weight of expectation throughout the length of the deal.

The contract has been the subject of much debate but Brown's performances for the Kiwis in last year's Pacific Championships campaign have fans confident he will deliver for his club.

The off-season arrival of Sandon Smith has triggered a three-way battle for two starting halves spots, with Fletcher Sharpe back on deck after recovering from a lacerated kidney.

Dylan Brown Tries from New Zealand vs Tonga XIII

Brown and Sharpe are expected to have first crack when Newcastle open their campaign against the Cowboys in Las Vegas, with Smith a versatile utility who can plug multiple gaps.

While Brown's influence will be crucial, there is no denying much of the Knights' chances in 2026 hinge on the health of Kalyn Ponga. The star halfback was restricted to just 13 games last season and has endured a challenging injury run in recent years.

Las Vegas Game Plan: Ponga primed for the bright lights

The Dally M Medal Winner has played 20 games in a season just once since 2020 and is eager to maximise his time on the field this year.

There have been plenty of changes at Newcastle this summer, with new coach Justin Holbrook taking charge of a new-look side.

The departure of Leo Thompson, Kai Pearce-Paul and Adam Elliott will leave a gap to be filled up front, but expect Jermaine McEwen, Dylan Lucas and Thomas Cant to step up in their place.