The Canterbury Bulldogs have moved quickly to secure one of their brightest young forwards, with Alekolasimi ‘AJ' Jones signing a new two-year contract extension.
The 2026 Bulldogs Rookie of the Year had only just signed a one-year extension in June, a deal which elevated him into the club's Top 30 squad for 2027.
That contract would have allowed Jones to negotiate with rival clubs from November 1, but his rapid rise through the Bulldogs' NRL side has prompted the club to lock him down for longer.
ESPN revealed the fresh deal, which will keep the versatile forward at Belmore until the end of the 2029 season.
Jones made another four appearances for the Bulldogs after putting pen to paper on his initial extension, further impressing the club and highlighting his potential at NRL level.
The young forward made his NRL debut in Round 9 against the North Queensland Cowboys after progressing through the Bulldogs' pathways system.
He went on to make five further appearances throughout the season, coming off the bench in each of his games and recording an impressive 95.6 per cent tackle efficiency.
His versatility and defensive work have made him a valuable option for the Bulldogs, with the club now securing his services through to the end of 2029.
The fresh extension represents another show of faith in Jones, who has rapidly progressed from the club's pathways system to an NRL contract and now a long-term future in Canterbury's top squad.
