AdminGREAT NEWS: Kalyn Ponga Finally Accepts Brisbane Broncos’ $3.4 Million Offer in Stunning Two-Year Deal
In a dramatic turn of events set to shake the foundations of the NRL, Kalyn Ponga, the superstar fullback of the Newcastle Knights, has reportedly signed with the Brisbane Broncos on a blockbuster two-year contract worth $3.4 million.
The deal — averaging $1.7 million per season — not only makes Ponga one of the highest-paid players in rugby league history but also signals Brisbane’s intent to re-establish themselves as a dominant force in the NRL over the coming seasons.
🔥 A Massive Move for the Broncos
The Broncos have been building a powerhouse roster in recent years, and the addition of Ponga adds serious firepower to an already potent backline. The Queensland-born superstar, who made his NRL debut in 2016, will be returning home to Brisbane in 2026, marking a major coup for the club.
“This is a massive moment for our club and our fans,” Broncos CEO Dave Donaghy said. “Kalyn is a generational talent. His leadership, creativity, and game-breaking ability are second to none. We’re thrilled to welcome him to Brisbane.”
🧢 Ponga’s Statement
In a brief but heartfelt statement, Ponga addressed the move:
“This wasn’t an easy decision. Newcastle has been my home, and I’m grateful for everything the club and fans have done for me. But I’m excited for a new challenge. Brisbane is where I grew up, and I want to help bring a premiership back to the Broncos.”
Ponga’s contract with Newcastle was due to run until the end of 2027, but with both clubs agreeing to a release clause, he will join Brisbane at the start of the 2026 NRL season.
📈 A Career That Continues to Rise
Kalyn Ponga, 27, has long been regarded as one of the NRL’s brightest stars. Since joining the Knights in 2018, he has become their marquee player, a club captain, and one of the most marketable names in the game. He has represented Queensland in State of Origin and played for New Zealand Māori.
Despite recent injury setbacks, Ponga’s form in 2024 reminded everyone of his elite capabilities, with several man-of-the-match performances and clutch plays that kept Newcastle in finals contention.
💸 The Numbers Behind the Deal
The two-year, $3.4 million deal makes Ponga one of the most expensive players in rugby league, surpassing the deals of James Tedesco, Nathan Cleary, and Daly Cherry-Evans in terms of annual salary. Here’s how the deal stacks up:
- Annual salary: $1.7 million
- Contract length: 2 years (2026–2027)
- Signing bonus: Undisclosed but rumored to be substantial
- Third-party deals: Expected to follow, especially in the Queensland corporate market
The move also sets a new benchmark for fullbacks in the NRL, with future negotiations likely to reflect Ponga’s enormous payday.
🤝 How Brisbane Sealed the Deal
Sources close to the negotiation say the Broncos had been courting Ponga for over 12 months. The key factor in getting the deal over the line? A strong relationship with Brisbane’s leadership group and a shared vision for winning a premiership within two years.
Coach Kevin Walters praised the club’s recruitment team and said he was “thrilled to work with a player of Kalyn’s calibre.”
“There are very few players in the game who can do what Kalyn does,” Walters said. “We’re building something special here, and Kalyn is a big piece of that puzzle.”
😢 Newcastle’s Reaction
The news is a major blow to the Newcastle Knights, who were hoping to build their squad around Ponga long-term. In a statement, the club expressed its disappointment but also acknowledged Ponga’s service and professionalism.
“Kalyn has been an incredible ambassador for our club. While we are saddened to see him go, we respect his decision and thank him for everything he has given to the Knights community,” said Knights CEO Phil Gardner.
Fans have reacted with mixed emotions — heartbreak over losing their captain, but gratitude for his years of service and leadership.
🏉 What’s Next?
Kalyn Ponga will complete the 2025 season with the Knights before officially joining the Broncos in November. Meanwhile, speculation has already begun about who Newcastle will target to replace their marquee star.
As for the Broncos, Ponga’s arrival only strengthens their bid to return to the top of the NRL ladder, with a spine that could rival any in the league.
📍Summary: Kalyn Ponga’s move to the Brisbane Broncos is a game-changing moment in rugby league. A $3.4 million deal, a return to Queensland, and a fresh chapter for one of the game’s brightest stars.
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