PNG Chiefs aggressively pursue NRL players for 2028 debut season
Zero Tackle NRL • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 12, 2026, 10:33 PM
Last updated Sep 12, 2026

The PNG Chiefs continue building their roster ahead of a 2028 inaugural season. Veteran player agent Steve Gillis reports that athletes are proactively inquiring about potential opportunities with the club, which has already secured seven signings. Confirmed additions include Jarome Luai, Alex Johnston, Connor Watson, Matty Lees, Brian To'o, Zac Lomax, and Joseph Manu. While the club manages salary cap constraints, it is currently in negotiations with Hudson Young and maintains interest in Nathan Cleary for future recruitment cycles. Gillis expects the team to have at least a dozen players under contract by this Christmas. The club is expected to increase recruitment activity following the November 1 date when standard contract negotiations officially open.
- •PNG Chiefs have already signed seven players to their inaugural roster.
- •The club is currently in discussions with Hudson Young.
- •Agent Steve Gillis anticipates at least 12 total signings by Christmas.
- •Recruitment efforts are expected to intensify after November 1.
- 10:33 PMZero Tackle NRL — Veteran player agent reveals the question he is being asked about PNG Chiefs
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