The Canterbury Bulldogs have landed a fresh signing, snaring the signature of rising star Archie McIlwain.
His management have confirmed the Knights local junior will shift to the Bulldogs at the start of 2027 on a two-year deal, with the opportunity to progress through the Bulldogs' pathways towards either a development or Top 30 deal in the coming years.
A talented outside back who is comfortable at fullback, wing, or centre, the potential is sky high for McIlwain who was part of the Knights team that made the under-19 SG Ball Cup grand final this year.
With recent first-grade debutant Toby Winter locking down the fullback jersey in that side, McIlwain lined up on the wing throughout the SG Ball season, with the Knights just coming up short by four points against the Rex Bassingthwaighte led Sydney Roosters outfit.
McIlwain scored just one try across the finals series for the Knights, but was strong in carries from the back and defence, and will now shift to the Bulldogs who have key questions around their back five over the coming years.
The club have re-signed Connor Tracey for the next two years, but have looked at other options in the number one jumper, while Marcelo Montoya has retired, and Bronson Xerri has made a move to the Melbourne Storm.
While Canterbury have a strong group of outside backs, Stephen Crichton has recently moved into the halves, and Matt Burton to the centres with no guarantee the later will remain at the club long-term.
McIlwain will start the 2027 season with the Bulldogs in the juniors and pathways before looking to progress to the NSW Cup where he will start to gain experience playing senior rugby league.
