Castleford Tigers sign experienced NRL forward with immediate effect

Castleford Tigers have made a splash signing and brought in an experienced NRL forward on a deal beyond the end of the current season.

The Tigers have been very active in the transfer market in regards to both comings and goings since their appointment of Chris Chester as their new Director of Rugby.

Chester boasted great success at Leigh Leopards, where he held the same role, and he’s got to work quickly at the Jungle as well.

Judah Rimbu was recently released with that exit opening up a quota spot which the club have now filled with Castleford announcing the signing of Brisbane Tigers’ forward Joe Stimson.

Stimson has over 100 games of NRL experience and only recently joined the Tigers, having left Gold Coast Titans at the end of the 2024 season.

He had previously represented Melbourne Storm and Canterbury Bulldogs but the 29-year-old forward will be playing for Castleford Tigers until the end of the 2026 season.

Castleford Tigers sign Joe Stimson on 18-month deal

Castleford took to social media to confirm the signing of Stimson, revealing that his deal was an 18-month one and not just a short-term fix until the end of the year.

Danny McGuire had revealed last week that the ‘paperwork is just taking a little bit of time’ when asked about filling the quota spot left by Rimbu’s exit, but it’s now all above board with Stimson’s arrival confirmed.

Taking to X, Castleford announced: “Castleford Tigers are delighted to announce the signing of Australian NRL star Joe Stimson on a deal until the end of the 2026 season.

“The 29-year-old from Temora, New South Wales, brings a wealth of experience to The Jungle, having made 115 NRL appearances during his career with Melbourne Storm, Canterbury Bulldogs, and the Titans.

“Stimson was part of Melbourne Storm’s squad in the 2018 NRL Grand Final and is widely regarded as a highly talented and hard-working forward.

“His arrival adds significant strength and depth to Castleford’s pack as the club prepares for the second half of the season.”

Director of Rugby Chris Chester spoke today about the addition “I’m delighted to get the signing of Joe over the line. He’s a hardworking middle who can play on an edge, and he also brings a huge level of NRL experience to the squad”

Head Coach Danny McGuire added “Really looking forward to Joe getting started with us. He’s quality player and been in some really strong environments, and I’m excited to see him bring that experience and desire to Castleford.”

Castleford Tigers are delighted to announce the signing of Australian NRL star Joe Stimson on a deal until the end of the 2026 season.
The 29-year-old from Temora, New South Wales, brings a wealth of experience to The Jungle, having made 115 NRL appearances during his career with… pic.twitter.com/bSquRi17C9

— Castleford Tigers (@CTRLFC) June 23, 2025