Newcastle fell agonisingly short in their elimination final against North Queensland to bring an end to another rollercoaster year in the Hunter.
Adam O’Brien’s side looked the goods with Kalyn Ponga at fullback but had to do without their talisman for a large chunk of the campaign once again.
A struggle to build a spine around their skipper plagued the Knights more than anything and a host of tough decisions will now need to be made as salary cap pressure bites.
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Which players have left the Newcastle Knights in 2024?
Daniel Saifiti is the headline name to depart the club at this stage with the former representative forward granted an early release from his deal.
The 28-year-old made 183 appearances for the Knights after making his debut for the club in 2016.
However, he opted to make a move to the Dolphins on a three-year deal as months of speculation around his future was finally put to bed.
David Armstrong has also made an exit after inking a contract with Leigh in the Super League, while Myles Martin has made a move to the nation’s capital and Tom Jenkins was granted an early release from his deal.
Brodie Jones, Krystian Mapapalangi and Enari Tuala remain without deals going into the 2025 campaign.
Full list of Newcastle Knights departures
List accurate as of 10th October
| Player | New club |
|---|---|
| Daniel Saifiti | Dolphins |
| David Armstrong | Leigh Leopards |
| Hymel Hunt | Retired |
| Myles Martin | Canberra Raiders |
| Tom Jenkins | TBC |
Who have the Newcastle Knights signed for 2025?
Rugby union convert Taj Annan has signed a three-year contract after the young gun left the Queensland Reds.
The 21-year-old has been signed for the backline although could also transition into a backrower.
He has been joined at the club by Francis Manuleleua, who Newcastle's Head of Recruitment, Peter O’Sullivan, has had his eyes on for years.
"Francis is another wonderful addition to our club and we are delighted he chose the Knights," O'Sullivan said.
"I’ve watched him play since he was 14, he is one of the more talented players I have come across, if he works hard, he will be a success at the Knights."
Meanwhile, Dane Gagai and Mat Croker have signed new deals which will likely keep them at the club for the next few seasons.
