The North Queensland Cowboys have confirmed the re-signing of prop Kaiden Lahrs, but only on a one-year deal.
The contract means he is now off-contract at the end of 2027, rather than 2026, but can go back to the open market from November 1 to negotiate his future with rival clubs if he chooses.
The re-signing follows earlier comments made by Todd Payten which confirmed he was the contract priority for the club, and that others, like the off-contract Matt Lodge, would be looked at after Lahrs was signed.
Lahrs, who is the son of former Australian and New South Wales representative Tom Laroyd-Lahrs, is rated as one of the best young props in the game.
At the age of 20, he has already made his NRL debut, and the club's recruitment manager Clint Zammit said he was thrilled to have re-signed the young gun.
“We are delighted to extend Kaiden for 2027,” Zammit said.
“Kaiden and his family have made Townsville their home and our club was formed to ensure North Queensland kids don't have to leave home to play at the highest level.
“We believe Kaiden can be an elite front-rower at NRL level and envision him as a key long-term member of our forward pack.
“A one-year extension allows additional time for both Kaiden and our club to work on a long-term extension which we hope keeps him at the Cowboys well into the future.”
The former Australian Schoolboy has now made eight NRL appearances, and has been part of the Cowboys system since 2023.
His role will likely increase next year.
Forward Sam McIntyre today confirmed he was moving to the New Zealand Warriors from the start of next year, while the club is also heading towards the end of Coen Hess and Jason Taumalolo's careers.
Both are expected to play next year, but could have reduced minutes.
