The Perth Bears have continued building their inaugural 2027 NRL squad with a flurry of signings, headlined by Panthers rookie Jack Cole and former Broncos utility Tyson Smoothy, both on three-year deals.
Jack Cole, a highly rated young playmaker from the Penrith system, joins the expansion club as one of the key developmental signings of the off-season.
Tyson Smoothy returns to Australia after a stint with Wakefield Trinity. The versatile forward was part of the Brisbane Broncos’ 2025 premiership-winning side and will reunite with former teammate and Australian international Gehamat Shibasaki.
Also confirmed is the arrival of Jope Rauqe from the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs. Both Rauqe and Shibasaki will be at the club for the 2027 season.
Reports suggest that Junior Paulo will be the next player to sign for the club and likely to be the inaugural club captain.
Why It Matters for the Perth Bears
These additions further strengthen Mal Meninga’s growing roster as the Bears prepare for their entry into the competition. Cole provides long-term halfback depth, while Smoothy brings proven first-grade experience and a winning pedigree. Shibasaki and Rauqe add immediate quality and versatility to the outside backs and forwards.
Updated Perth Bears Squad (by contract end date):
- Tyran Wishart – until end of 2031
- Liam Henry, Sean Russell – until end of 2030
- Josh Curran, Nick Meaney, Siosifa Talakai, Mikolaj Oledzki, Apa Twidle, Jack Cole, Tyson Smoothy – until end of 2029
- Toby Sexton, Harry Newman, Luke Smith, Emarly Bitungane, Iszac Fa’asuamaleaui, James McDonnell, Chris Vea’ila, Luke Laulilii, Scott Sorensen, Kit Laulilii, Mavrik Geyer – until end of 2028
- Gehamat Shibasaki, Jope Rauqe – until end of 2027
The Bears’ recruitment drive continues to gather momentum as they shape a competitive and balanced squad for their debut season.
Related
- 2026 NRL: Squads and Player Movements /nrl/signings/
