Knights Secure Warriors Forward Mitchell Barnett for 2027 Season to Strengthen Forward Pack
NEWCASTLE, Australia – The Newcastle Knights have announced the signing of New Zealand Warriors forward Mitchell Barnett for the 2027 NRL season, with head coach Justin Holbrook moving to reinforce the club’s engine room as part of a targeted roster strategy. The acquisition of Barnett, a seasoned middle forward renowned for his physicality and consistency, aims to bring vital experience and hard-nosed grit to the Knights’ forward pack.
Holbrook’s pursuit of the 30-year-old underscores a clear focus on building a forward rotation capable of competing at the highest level, as the Knights look to build on consecutive finals appearances in 2023 and 2024. With several key forwards coming to the end of their contracts, Barnett’s arrival is set to provide stability and leadership in the middle third of the field.
“Mitchell Barnett is exactly the type of player we want at the Newcastle Knights – he brings a relentless work ethic and a no-nonsense approach that sets the standard for everyone around him,” Holbrook said in a club statement today. “Our strategy has always been to build a forward pack with the toughness and experience needed to succeed in this competition, and Mitchell fits that mould perfectly. He’ll be a valuable addition to our squad as we continue to push towards premiership success.”
Barnett, who has played over 180 NRL games across stints with the Knights earlier in his career and the Warriors, expressed his excitement at returning to the Hunter region. “To come back to Newcastle and be part of this club’s journey is something I’m really looking forward to,” he said. “I have great memories of my time here, and I know the passion of the Knights fans. Working with Justin Holbrook and his coaching staff, I’m ready to bring my best and help drive this team forward.”
The forward made his NRL debut with the Knights in 2015 before joining the Warriors in 2021, where he established himself as one of the competition’s most reliable performers. Standing at 193cm and weighing 110kg, he is known for his strong carries, effective defensive work and ability to control the ruck. His experience will be invaluable in mentoring the club’s emerging young forwards, who have been identified as key to Newcastle’s long-term success.
The signing follows a period of strategic recruitment for the Knights, who have focused on securing both established talent and promising juniors to build a sustainable roster. Barnett will join the club at the conclusion of the 2026 season, with the Knights planning to integrate him into their systems well ahead of the 2027 campaign kick-off.
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