The nib Newcastle Knights have rewarded another 2025 NRL debutant, with exciting young forward Elijah Salesa-Leaumoana recommitting until the end of the 2027 National Rugby League season.
The powerful back rower, hailing from Moto’otua, Samoa and raised in New Zealand, first signed with the Knights and relocated to Newcastle in late 2022.
Salesa-Leaumoana progressed nicely through the Knights pathways system, playing SG Ball, Jersey Flegg and NSW Cup, before becoming Newcastle Knight player number 360, making his NRL debut against Manly in Round 14, 2025.
nib Newcastle Knights Head of Recruitment Peter O’Sullivan said this contract upgrade and extension is a reward for effort.
“Elijah is a powerful middle forward who has earned an upgrade to top squad in 2026, along with a further extension to 2027," said O’Sullivan.
“He worked really hard in the off season and applied himself in the lower grades to earn an NRL debut, handling every step along the way.
“He looks a player of the future and another great story for our pathways program.
“It's proven that development clubs win premierships, and with players like Elijah, Jermaine and Fletcher gaining invaluable NRL experience, we believe the Knights are well placed for the future.”
