The Gold Coast Titans have continued their roster rebuild ahead of the 2026 NRL season, confirming a string of signings featuring untried and fringe first-graders seeking a fresh start under new head coach Josh Hannay.
The recruitment drive reflects a strategic reset following the departure of David Fifita to South Sydney and the retirement of veteran playmaker Kieran Foran, with the club focusing on untapped potential and development over marquee signings.
🟡 Adam Christensen joins from Burleigh Bears
Adam Christensen becomes the latest Queensland talent to earn an NRL opportunity, signing with the Titans on a contract through to the end of 2027.
The 23-year-old forward has impressed at the Burleigh Bears, a Brisbane Broncos feeder club in the Hostplus Cup, and will now look to transition into the NRL system full-time.
Christensen’s size and mobility have made him a standout in Queensland Cup circles, and he’ll enter pre-season with a real shot at forcing his way into Hannay’s extended squad.
🟢 Jensen Taumoepeau signs after Canberra stint
The Titans have also secured Jensen Taumoepeau from the Canberra Raiders’ NSW Cup side.
The powerful middle forward has previously featured in both state competitions — with Northern Pride in Queensland and Newtown Jets in New South Wales — offering versatility and experience across two development systems.
Taumoepeau’s signing is viewed as a low-risk, high-upside addition as Hannay continues to reshape the club’s depth in the forward pack.
🔴 Lachlan Ilias gets a second chance on the Coast
Former South Sydney and St George Illawarra halfback Lachlan Ilias has also joined the Titans on a two-year deal until the end of 2027.
At 25, Ilias has played 60 NRL matches, including seven appearances for the Dragons in 2025. Despite an up-and-down campaign, the Titans see him as a player capable of reigniting his career under a fresh system.
Hannay is expected to give Ilias every opportunity to compete for a starting halves role alongside the club’s younger playmakers.
🧠 Development contracts for Faeamani, Liu and Pascoe
The Titans have confirmed three development signings as part of their future-focused recruitment drive:
- Siale Faeamani (development contract until end of 2027)
- Jett Liu (development contract until end of 2027)
- Oliver Pascoe (train-and-trial graduate, development deal until end of 2027)
Pascoe’s rise from a pre-season train-and-trial agreement to a full development contract highlights the club’s emphasis on rewarding effort and potential within the system.
⚫ Luke Sommerton heads north from Penrith
Adding further depth at hooker, the Titans have picked up Luke Sommerton from the Penrith Panthers, also signing through to the end of 2027.
Sommerton, 22, has been a reliable backup to Mitch Kenny and Luke Garner in the Panthers’ system, earning praise for his defensive work and energy around the ruck. He will compete with the likes of Chris Randall and Keano Kini for minutes in the No.9 role.
🔵 New direction under Hannay
With Hannay’s appointment signalling a new era on the Gold Coast, the Titans’ recruitment strategy is clearly geared toward development, culture, and hunger for opportunity.
While the departures of Fifita and Foran leave significant gaps in experience and leadership, the influx of emerging talent gives the club flexibility and competition across key positions.
The 2026 pre-season will mark the beginning of Hannay’s first full campaign at the helm — and for a host of new faces, a chance to prove they belong in the NRL.
Related Stories:
- David Fifita signs with South Sydney Rabbitohs
- Josh Hannay confirmed as new Gold Coast Titans head coach
- Kieran Foran Announces Retirement After 17-Year NRL Career
