2026 shapes as make or break season for Northern Rivers players in the NRL

A HOST of Northern Rivers rugby league products will be off contract at NRL clubs this season, making 2026 a pivotal year for their futures in the top grade.

Former Ballina juniors Brian Kelly and Nick Meaney are in the final year of their deals at the Gold Coast Titans and Melbourne Storm.

Kelly will turn 30 in 2026 and has played 190 NRL games since making his debut at Manly in 2017.

He has been at the Titans since 2019 and has been one of the club’s most consistent performers at centre.

“Brian is a Northern Rivers boy, he is a local junior, and he has been a valued member of our club for a long time now,” former assistant coach Jim Lenihan said.

“A few years ago, Brian won the Paul Broughton Medal as our club champion, and he’s shown just how dangerous he can be.”

Kelly could also attract interest from the Perth Bears, who will join the competition in 2027.

Meaney is also coming off contract and would not be short of options.

He could spend time at fullback this season following the departure of Storm star Ryan Papenhuyzen.

 

Veteran Cody Walker is in the final year of his deal at South Sydney after signing a one-year extension.

Second-rower Jack Gosiewski also has one season remaining with the Brisbane Broncos.

The Titans have continued to invest in Northern Rivers talent, with Cudgen junior Jaylan De Groot contracted until the end of next season.

De Groot has played 18 games on the wing since making his NRL debut in 2024.

He is considered part of the club’s plans under new coach Josh Hannay and can play multiple roles across the backline.

“I’ve always prided myself on being able to play at fullback, wing or centre, and I’m willing to learn new things,” De Groot said.

“I want to put my best foot forward for the team wherever that position is.”

De Groot has been joined at the Titans by rising Tweed star Zane Harrison and Lismore product Josh Patston, who are both on two-year deals.

Lismore-born Alofiana Khan-Pereira has moved on from the Titans after signing a three-year deal with the New Zealand Warriors.