As the PNG Chiefs continue to build their roster for 2028, their backline signings have been making all the headlines. In the forwards, however, less progress has been made with only the signings of Connor Watson and Matty Lees on the books to date.
Armed with a substantial war chest and the advantage of tax-free salaries, PNG will be almost impossible to match financially in terms of what they can offer off-contract forwards willing to join the expansion club in 2028.
The following front-row targets will all be available in 2028 would provide instant impact for the expansion club, contributing to an immediate engine room ready to compete in the NRL.
Front-Row
Moses Leota (Penrith Panthers)
The Situation: Contracted until 2027
The Fit: Leota is a four-time premiership-winning prop, who was arguably in the conversation for the Clive Churchill Medal in a couple of grand finals. He represents the gold star of ball carrying brutality, combined with an excellent defensive work rate. Landing him in combination with the existing signings out of the Penrith system, would provide instant experience, leadership and embed a winning DNA into the inaugural Chiefs pack.
Thomas Flegler (Dolphins)
The Situation: Contracted until 2027
The Fit: Flegler provides pure aggression, speed, and State of Origin pedigree. He possesses dynamic leg speed through the defensive line and a terrifying physical edge. Flegler will be 28 when the competition kicks off in 2028, which represents a prime period for Front Rowers, just what is required to make an instant impact with an expansion club. While the Dolphins will fight hard to keep him, landing a player of his calibre would be a massive recruitment statement for the Chiefs.
Spencer Leniu (Sydney Roosters)
The Situation: Contracted until 2027
The Fit: Leniu is one of the most destructive bench or starting props in the NRL, possessing the type of ball carrying ability that few possess. In terms of explosiveness and aggression he is capable of shifting the momentum of a game with or without the ball. With his prime in the middle of the park still in front of him, his passion and high-impact playing style would make him an immediate cult figure in Port Moresby. Connecting Leniu with some familiar faces from his Panthers past would only further assist in building community as part of compound living, which will be vital to the initial and ongoing success of the Chiefs.
Stefano Utoikamanu (Melbourne Storm)
Embed from Getty ImagesThe Situation: Contracted until 2027
The Fit: Moving to Melbourne has seen Utoikamanu elevate his game and with his prime years ahead of him and availability in 2028, this is a move that makes sense. He is an explosive player, possessing late footwork and large post contact metres, coupled with international playing experience. A signing of this nature for the Chiefs makes him someone that could provide a cornerstone of go forward for years to come. At 27 entering the 2028 season, he provides the physical, destructive carries that PNG style demands.
Who would be at the top of your PNG Chiefs recruitment wishlist for 2028? If you have an eye for talent and a passion for rugby league analysis, why not turn your opinions into articles? Rugby League Zone is actively seeking contributors. Find out how to join the team via our Write For Us page.
