There were several signings this year that proved profitable for players in their new environments, as well as clubs building towards something bigger.
From taking their clubs to finals to making a name for themselves in the competition, here are the recruits of 2026.
9. David Fifita (South Sydney Rabbitohs)
David Fifita's signing to the South Sydney Rabbitohs was a second chance for the edge forward. It was evident he was not playing anywhere near his potential at the Gold Coast Titans, and when Wayne Bennett came knocking, it was his time to put his head down.
Fifita was heavily criticised during his time on the Gold Coast due to his low work rate and contract salary. His inconsistency and involvement in games showed that he was not a million-dollar player; not even close to it.
An early release to the Rabbitohs may have been the best thing Fifita could have done for his career. He played 17 games this year and started in all of them, scored a handful of tries and looked like he was back to his old rampaging self.
Fifita looks healthier and happier under Wayne Bennett and looks to have reignited his form. He will look to retain his starting position on the edge for South Sydney and possibly return to representing Queensland in 2027.
I would not include Dylan Brown in the list of “10 best signings”. Why? Because Newcastle has signed him for far too long and for far too much money.
He will be 35 when he starts the last year of his contract.
Don’t expect him to be anywhere as near as good then as he is now.
I see him as a second Jason Taumalolo. Signed for ten years on about a million per year. He might have been worth the money in his first few years, but now he nowhere near worth the money.
I think Brown will end up just the same.
Where’s Coby Black…………………………………..