Widnes Vikings have officially confirmed their end-of-season departure list, headlined by fullback Nathan Connell earning a top-flight return with Bradford Bulls.
Connell, 23, has been a revelation for Allan Coleman’s side during a prolific 2026 campaign.
Having crossed for 20 tries in 26 appearances, the former Salford Red Devils back has firmly established himself as one of the standout fullbacks in the Championship.
His blistering form has rewarded him with a two-year contract to rejoin former coach Kurt Haggerty at Bradford Bulls as part of their top-flight squad overhaul.
Widnes Vikings confirm end-of-season departures
- Nathan Connell: Departing to join Super League side Bradford Bulls on a two-year deal following a 20-try campaign.
- Jack Owens: The legendary club captain leaves after two stints for the Vikings spanning 11 years, having made 227 appearances and scored 1,069 points.
- Mike Butt: Leaving to join his hometown club Salford Red Devils after scoring 39 tries in 74 games for Widnes.
- Jack Houghton: Departing after featuring 10 times in his debut season with the club.
- Matty Fleming: Contract negotiations remain ongoing regarding a potential extension.
Reflecting on the squad exits, Widnes head coach Allan Coleman expressed his gratitude to the departing group as they prepare for their final fixtures.
“I just want to wish all the players leaving us all the best in the future,” Coleman said.
“I’m so grateful that they played a part in the history of our club, and a part of our season,
“They’ll always be a Viking in our eyes and we can’t thank them enough,
“They go with our absolute best wishes.”
For Connell, the move to Odsal sees him link back up with Haggerty, who previously coached the utility back during his breakthrough season at Salford.
His signing marks another major statement of intent for the Bulls ahead of the 2027 season alongside new recruits John Bateman, James Bentley, and Ligi Sao.
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