A prop forward who has represented Queensland at Under 19 level in State of Origin has signed with a Super League club for 2026.
Ryan Jackson is the latest man to sign with newly-promoted side York Knights ahead of the North Yorkshire side’s maiden season in Super League.
The 21-year-old prop joins from Central Queensland Capras having previously played for Queensland at State of Origin youth level, back in 2023.
Jackson signed with NRL club the Dolphins in 2023 as part of their development squad, spending the 2023 campaign and half of the 2024 campaign playing for their Queensland Cup side before he joined the Capras.
In total, Jackson has played 48 games at that level, including 14 in 2025 but he now makes the switch to the northern hemisphere hoping to be the latest Q-Cup star to make an impact in Super League, just like Caius Faatili of Wakefield Trinity did during his first campaign in Super League last year.
York Knights bolster forward pack for debut Super League campaign
Described by the Knights as a “strong running forward”, Jackson will join a forward pack that has plenty of Super League experience with Paul Vaughan, Josh Griffin and Justin Sangare among a number of new recruits for 2026.
Speaking on his move, Jackson said: “With the club heading into Super League, it’s a chance to be a part of history and a part of something special.
“What I’m looking forward to the most is the mateship. Being far away from home and enjoying footy with good mates is something special.”
Head coach Mark Applegarth added: “I’m really excited to see how he goes in England. He’s obviously got a good pedigree coming through the Queensland age group ranks.
“He’s a big body, loves doing the tough stuff, exactly what we need, and at 21 he’s got the best years in front of him. I’m looking forward to seeing how he goes in the English game.”
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