Sydney Roosters secure Reece Robson for 2026 NRL season

Reece Robson will part ways with the North Queensland Cowboys at the end of the 2025 NRL season after signing a lucrative four-year deal with the Sydney Roosters.

The North Queensland Cowboys announced Robson’s departure on Friday, followed by confirmation from the Roosters.

Despite receiving a competitive offer from North Queensland, the 26-year-old opted to join the Sydney Roosters, where he is expected to play a pivotal role as the starting dummy-half from 2026.

Robson, who has played five State of Origin matches for the New South Wales Blues, will likely assume the primary hooker role at the Roosters.

This shift could see current Roosters hooker Brandon Smith displaced from his position, adding intrigue to the team’s lineup for the 2026 season.

Roosters head of recruitment Daniel Anderson expressed his excitement about the signing, stating,

“We’re pleased to have secured Reece’s signature and look forward to welcoming him to the Roosters in 2026,” said Roosters Head of Recruitment, Daniel Anderson.

Robson has been with the Cowboys since 2020, after starting his NRL career with the St. George Illawarra Dragons.

Known for his defensive prowess and reliability in the dummy-half role, he has become a cornerstone of the Cowboys’ squad.

His impending departure creates a significant gap in the Cowboys’ roster, particularly as Smith has also ruled out a return to Townsville.

“We tabled our best possible offer, but unfortunately were not able to compete with the final offer Reece received,” Cowboys General Manager of Football Micheal Luck said.

“Reece now has a young family and we respect his decision.

“He will continue to be an important member of our squad 2025, 2025 and we look forward to his contributions in his final season at the club.”

Robson’s move marks a major coup for the Roosters and leaves the Cowboys searching for a quality replacement at hooker while currently a $23 hope to win the 2025 NRL season with the top NRL bookmakers.

The move further solidifies the Roosters’ ambitions for the upcoming seasons, while the Cowboys prepare to navigate life after one of their key players.

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