League: NRL Sport: Rugby Country: Australia Category: Transactions

Raiders sign Jaiyden Hunt and Lipoi Hopoi for 2027 NRL season

Zero Tackle NRL • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 22, 2026, 4:51 AM

Last updated Sep 22, 2026

Raiders sign Jaiyden Hunt and Lipoi Hopoi for 2027 NRL season

Summary

The Canberra Raiders have announced the signings of Jaiyden Hunt and Lipoi Hopoi for the 2027 NRL season. Both players are set to join the team as part of a significant roster overhaul following the departures of key forwards like Josh Papalii, Morgan Smithies, and Corey Horsburgh. Hunt, a veteran from the Broncos, and Hopoi, who has played for the Bulldogs, have each signed two-year contracts. Raiders recruitment manager Chris Hutchison expressed confidence in their potential contributions to the team. The club hopes these additions will help bounce back from a disappointing 2026 season.

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Key Details

•Raiders confirm signings of Jaiyden Hunt and Lipoi Hopoi for 2027.
•Hunt brings experience from the Broncos, while Hopoi had 17 matches with Bulldogs.
•Both players signed two-year contracts until at least the end of 2028.
•Raiders lost significant players like Josh Papalii and Morgan Smithies after 2026.
•Chris Hutchison believes both players will provide value and improve the squad.

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