Jayden Brailey to Depart Newcastle Knights After 2025 Season, Ending Six-Year Tenure
Newcastle Knights hooker Jayden Brailey has confirmed he will conclude his tenure with the club at the end of the 2025 NRL season, marking the end of a dedicated six-year stint in the Hunter region. The announcement, made via a joint statement from Brailey and the Knights on Tuesday, signals the conclusion of a career chapter that has seen the 27-year-old establish himself as one of the team’s most reliable and respected figures.
A Pillar of Consistency
Since joining the Knights in 2020 from the Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks, Brailey has been a linchpin in Newcastle’s forward pack, renowned for his defensive grit, leadership, and sharp service from dummy-half. Over 85 appearances in the red and blue, the crafty hooker became synonymous with the club’s resurgence, helping guide the team to back-to-back finals appearances in 2020 and 2023. His relentless work ethic—averaging over 40 tackles per game during his peak seasons—earned him admiration from fans and peers alike.
Brailey’s journey in Newcastle wasn’t without adversity. A ruptured ACL in 2021 sidelined him for nearly a year, but his triumphant return in 2022 underscored his resilience. “It’s been an honor to represent this community,” Brailey said in his farewell statement. “Newcastle has given me so much, both on and off the field. While the decision wasn’t easy, I’m excited for the next chapter and committed to making these final two seasons count.”
Why Now?
Speculation about Brailey’s future had simmered in recent months, with the hooker entering the final years of his contract. While neither Brailey nor the Knights disclosed specific reasons for his departure, insiders suggest the decision stems from a mutual understanding of the club’s long-term roster strategy. Newcastle is reportedly eyeing younger talent to build around marquee stars like Kalyn Ponga, while Brailey, who will turn 30 in 2025, may be seeking a fresh challenge to cap off his career.
Knights football director Peter Parr praised Brailey’s professionalism, stating, “Jayden embodies everything we value here: toughness, humility, and a team-first mentality. While we’re saddened to see him go, we respect his decision and look forward to celebrating his contributions over the next two seasons.”
Fan Reactions and Legacy
News of Brailey’s impending exit sparked an outpouring of gratitude on social media, with Knights fans hailing him as a “modern-day club legend.” Memorable moments, such as his match-winning try against the Bulldogs in 2023 and his captaincy fill-in during Ponga’s absences, were widely shared. Local forums buzzed with tributes, with one supporter noting, “He’s the kind of player you hate to face but love to have on your side.”
Teammates also voiced their admiration. Veteran forward Daniel Saifiti tweeted, “Brother, you’ve set the standard here. Legend of the club!” Meanwhile, halfback Jackson Hastings highlighted Brailey’s underrated playmaking skills: “People don’t realize how much he controls our ruck. He’s been our glue.”
What’s Next for Brailey?
While Brailey’s post-2025 plans remain unconfirmed, rumors link him to a potential return to Cronulla or a stint in the English Super League. However, the focus for now remains on his final campaigns in Newcastle. “My heart is fully here until the last whistle,” he emphasized. “We’ve got unfinished business, and I want to leave this jersey in a better place.”
Jayden Brailey to Depart Newcastle Knights After 2025 Season, Ending Six-Year Tenure
Brailey’s departure will leave sizable shoes to fill. The club has already begun planning for life
