Wests Tigers have confirmed one of rugby league's worst-kept secrets, with young playmaker Jayden Sullivan signing a four-year deal with the club for 2024 and beyond after being granted an early release by the Dragons.
After being told by incoming coach Shane Flanagan his services would not be required for the remaining two years of his current contract, Sullivan was in talks with both the Tigers and Bulldogs in recent weeks about a potential move.
The 21-year-old has struggled with hamstring injuries throughout his tenure in the Red V, but has shown glimpses of his enormous potential and is an astute signing for Tim Sheens and Benji Marshall, who were desperate for a playmaking fix.
Sullivan is expected to partner Aidan Sezer next season, before likely lining up with teenage sensation Latu Fainu long-term at Concord.
MORE: Phil Gould questions Benji Marshall's appointment as head coach after Tim Sheens' exit
Jayden Sullivan signs four-year deal with Wests Tigers
Incoming Tigers head coach Benji Marshall declared Sullivan would be a key part of the club once he departs from the Dragons at the end of the year.
"He’s a very talented young player with a bright future," Marshall said.
"On top of that, he is a really good person with great character and an infectious energy.
"We expect him to play a key role for us over the next few years."
The club's CEO Justin Pascoe echoed the same sentiments about the young gun, who has featured 12 times for the Red V this season.
"We are delighted that Jayden has decided to join us on a long-term deal," Pascoe said.
"Jayden will be an important part of this club as we continue to strive for success, on and off the field.
"I know he’s excited about our plans for next year and beyond, and I welcome Jayden and his family to Wests Tigers."
Jayden Sullivan 2023 NRL stats
| Games | 12 |
| Tries | 3 |
| Try Assists | 1 |
| Offloads | 5 |
| Avg. Run Metres | 51m |
| Avg. Kick Metres | 148m |
| Forced Dropouts | 4 |
Wests Tigers NRL off-contract list
| 2023 | Alex Seyfarth, Brandon Wakeham, Charlie Staines, Tukimihia Simpkins |
| 2024 | Adam Doueihi, Alex Twal, Asu Kepaoa, Brandon Tumeth (PO), Jake Simpkin, Junior Tupou, Justin Matamua (CO), Rua Ngatikaura, Shawn Blore, Sione Fainu, Starford To'a, Stefano Utoikamanu (MO), Triston Reilly |
| 2025 | Brent Naden, David Klemmer (MO), David Nofoaluma, Fonua Pole, Isaiah Papali'i, Jahream Bula, Josh Feledy |
| 2026 | Api Koroisau, John Bateman |
| 2027 | Jayden Sullivan*, Latu Fainu*, Samuela Fainu* |
*Sullivan and the Fainu brothers will join the club next season
