Championship side Rochdale Hornets have been able to keep hold of one of their loan players, following a successful spell at the club.
Young Wigan Warriors prop Dylan Kelly-Duffy signed for the Hornets during the second half of their League One campaign in 2025, as they finished in the sixth and final playoff spot.
Appearing seven times, the forward, who turns 20 at the end of October, became a regular starter in Gary Thornton’s side, and his good form has now earned him a permanent move to the club.
Kelly-Duffy is the twin brother of Trent Kelly-Duffy, who also has moved on from the Warriors this off-season, after signing for Swinton Lions. Both twins turned out for the Lions at the start of this year, as they looked to gain experience in the lower divisions.
Speaking on his move to the Hornets, the youngster said he can’t wait for the new challenge ahead.
“I’m buzzing to be joining Rochdale for the 2026 season,” he said. “I can’t wait to get into pre-season and meet all the boys. I really enjoyed my loan spell at the back end of last season, so when I got the offer to stay for next year, it was an easy decision for me to make.”
Kelly-Duffy becomes the eight new signing for the Hornets ahead of 2026, and will link up with former Leigh Leopards and Salford Red Devils centre Junior Sa’u, who has signed a one-year deal with the club to extend his rugby league career at the age of 38.
Experienced half-back Jamie Dallimore has also signed on at the Hornets next year, as the Championship new boys look to add a blend of youth and experience to their side.
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We are delighted to announce the signing of young forward Dylan Kelly-Duffy on a permanent basis ahead of the 2026 season.
📰: https://t.co/DYsHgj65Tp pic.twitter.com/kq9H3sGS5m
— Rochdale Hornets (@RochdaleHornets) October 6, 2025
