Tyrone Thompson, an international prop who will likely test his worth on the free market, was a wise addition to the Knights’ roster in an attempt to persuade his identical twin Leo to stay with the team longer.
Leo has one year remaining on his current contract, which is reportedly worth $350,000. Several teams are willing to spend much more for the New Zealand player, who has had two fantastic seasons playing in the middle for Newcastle.
With teams like the Bulldogs and the Dragons looking to add some strength to their front pack, he will be free to negotiate with rivals starting on Friday.
After missing the Kangaroos match due to suspension, Thompson, who has played for the Knights for the last three years, will rejoin the Kiwis for this weekend’s crucial match against Tonga.
Tyrone’s arrival on an NRL development contract next year will be a significant consideration when he makes his 2026 playing decisions, but the Knights are still in the running to retain him.
Tyrone played for the All Blacks XV team in 2022 after completing the New Zealand rugby union system.
According to Knights head of recruitment Peter O’Sullivan, Tyrone is a very talented player who is driven to play in the NRL like his brother.
After spending several years in top junior pathway teams and programs, he has demonstrated himself to be a very skilled and formidable rugby player, playing for the Maori All Blacks and All Blacks XV on an international level.
“I still clearly recall seeing the brothers perform for Napier Boys High. Tyrone was an athletic forward, while Leo was a center. Both of them were exceptional players.
He wants to follow Leo into the NRL and is eager to start the path to become a Knight, as seen by his willingness to leave the All-Blacks system where he feels at ease and try his hand at the NRL.