The nib Newcastle Knights have locked in one of the most damaging edge forwards, with Dylan Lucas extending his contract for a further three seasons through to the end of 2030.
Fresh from earning selection in the NSW Blues squad for Game 1, Lucas underlined just how important he is to the Newcastle Knights with another powerful performance in last weekend’s win over Parramatta, at McDonald Jones Stadium.
The 25-year-old produced an elite 80-minute performance on both sides of the ball, finishing with 46 tackles, 154 running metres and two long-range tries, in a display that underlines why he is regarded as one of the game’s most dangerous backrowers.
Knights Head of Recruitment Peter O’Sullivan said Lucas has taken his game to an elite level.
“Dylan has been a revelation on our team over the past few years,” O’Sullivan said.
“With his line running, speed, athleticism and edge defence, he is now the complete package.
“Dylan has matured into one of the team’s most influential leaders, he is analytical, vocal and drives standards both on and off the field.
“We are proud Dylan and several senior players have chosen to extend their tenure here at the Knights, it brings great stability and experience as we keep building.
“Dylan loves this Club, he loves representing the region and he is exactly the sort of person and player we want helping drive this group forward.”
NRL Head Coach Justin Holbrook said Lucas’ positive influence on the club is enormous.
“Dylan’s work ethic is outstanding,” Holbrook said.
“The positive attitude and intensity Dylan trains and plays with every day is infectious on his teammates and everyone around him.
“He has become a genuine leader. He backs himself with a respectful self-confidence that has a huge impact and influence on the standards of this group.
“Dylan typifies everything we want a Knights player to represent. He is a great person, honest and tough, and we are thrilled he has decided to stay with the club.”
Newcastle Knights Director of Football Chris James said Lucas’s re-signing was another strong sign of where the Club is heading.
“The momentum we have built through this period of re-signings is not accidental,” said James.
“It reflects a clear direction, a strong culture and a genuine belief that the best days for the Newcastle Knights are ahead of us.
“Our ambition is a Premiership and every decision we make is pointed at that. Keeping Dylan Lucas is a very important part of that pursuit.”
