The Newcastle Knights have secured another piece of their long-term puzzle, with local junior Thomas Cant re-signing through to the end of the 2028 NRL season.
The 23-year-old East Maitland product has been rewarded for his steady rise through the club’s pathways system, cementing his place in a roster undergoing significant transition.
Cant’s journey is a familiar one to Knights fans. After progressing through the junior ranks, he made his NSW Cup debut in March 2023, before earning his NRL debut later that same month — a rapid elevation that underlined the club’s belief in his development.
Since then, Cant has accumulated 22 NRL appearances, including 18 matches last season in what proved a difficult campaign for Newcastle as they finished at the bottom of the ladder.
Despite the club’s struggles, Cant was one of the players to emerge with greater responsibility, showcasing resilience and work rate in the back row.
A New Era Under Holbrook
The re-signing comes during a clear reset at the Knights under new head coach Justin Holbrook, who has overseen a significant reshaping of the roster heading into 2026.
Newcastle have welcomed nine new signings, highlighted by marquee playmaker Dylan Brown and forward recruit Pasami Saulo, signalling a shift toward a fresh identity after a disappointing season.
Retaining Cant adds continuity to that rebuild. As a homegrown forward still entering his prime, he shapes as an important figure in the club’s next phase.
With youth, local pride and first-grade experience already under his belt, Cant now has the security to continue developing as the Knights aim to climb back up the NRL ladder.
Related Article
2026 NRL: Squads and Player Movements
