York Knights are one of three promoted teams to make the jump from the Championship to Super League, in what is their first season in the top division in 45 years.
Led by former Wakefield boss Mark Applegarth, the Knights topped the second tier in 2025, before losing out narrowly to fellow Super League new boys Toulouse Olympique in the Grand Final.
It was still an incredibly successful season, though, with the club also winning the 1895 Cup at Wembley, as they edged out Featherstone Rovers in a 5-4 thriller.
With their top flight status now confirmed, the North Yorkshire outfit are well on their way to confirming their squad for next season, after announcing a heap of new signings and retentions.
Players such as Paul Vaughan and Josh Griffin have joined the club, and will bring incredible experience, whilst young talents Jack Smith and Jon Bennison have put pen to paper too, as they look for a chance to establish themselves in the top flight.
Here is how the Knights could line up in 2026, and there are some quality players in and amongst the York ranks that could provide a threat in Super League next year.
York Knights 2026 line-up predicted
Full-back: Toa Mata’afa
After signing a new deal to extend his Knights stay for another season, Mata’afa joined York part way through 2025 and became the club’s first-choice full-back in favour of Will Dagger.
He is expected to remain in that position, however new recruit Jordan Lipp could also be an option there, with the former North Devils man offering great versatility, and can play in the halves or at centre.
Wingers: Scott Galeano and Jon Bennison
Despite having a contract for 2026, Galeano has agreed improved terms with the club, and it’s easy to see why after he scored 21 tries in 23 appearances.
On the opposite flank is expected to be former Saints man Jon Bennison, who joins the club following his departure from the BrewDog Stadium. A Grand Final try scorer, Bennison’s primary position is full-back, but he has become accustom to playing on the edges, and has scored 26 tries in 62 appearances in the position.
Centres: Sam Wood and Kieran Buchanan
Former Castleford captain, Wood, was an England international in 2024, and after leaving the Onebore Stadium became one of York’s best pick-ups.
Meanwhile, former Hull FC man Buchanan was another standout in the Knights’ Championship squad last year. He has earned a new deal and will get a second crack at the top flight in 2026.
Halves: Ata Hingano and Danny Richardson
Despite the pairing of Hingano and Liam Harris being so successful last year, the signing of Richardson suggests there will be a new halves partnership at the LNER Community Stadium next year.
The former St Helens and Castleford man moved to Hull KR in 2024, but found game time hard to come by. He spent part of the 2025 season at Salford Red Devils, making two appearances under Paul Rowley.
Props: Jack Martin and Paul Vaughan
This Aussie duo may be at different part of their careers, but both will be looking to make just as much impact.
Former New South Wales origin player, Vaughan, joins from Warrington Wolves in a significant coup for the club, whilst 24-year-old Martin became a fan favourite last year, with his performances making him worthy of a starting role in the top flight.
Hooker: Paul McShane
Former Man of Steel winner, McShane, moved to the club ahead of 2025, ending a decade-long stint at the Tigers.
The club have also brought in Hull FC prospect Denive Balmforth on a season-long loan, with the pair likely to be used in rotation.
Back-rowers: Matty Foster and Jesse Dee
Former Salford man Foster will be looking to improve on his 24 Super League appearances, with 17 of those coming at the Red Devils.
Australian Dee is likely to join him in the back row, with the club also having former Leeds youngster Oli Field as a more than capable depth option.
Loose Forward: Jordan Thompson*
It has to be stated that Thompson hasn’t officially signed new terms at the club yet, and isn’t a certainty to be part of their 2026 squad.
However, the former Super League veteran played a pivotal role last year, and was nominated for the Championship Player of the Year award for his efforts. The Knights will surely be doing all they can to keep him on again.
Bench: Denive Balmforth, John Sagaga, Ryan Jackson, Josh Griffin
