Newcastle Knights Cut Bradman Best: Canberra Raiders has officially announced the signing of Newcastle Knights Centre Bradman Best on a Three-Years Contract following his…
In a move that has sent shockwaves across the NRL community, the Canberra Raiders have officially announced the signing of Newcastle Knights star centre Bradman Best on a lucrative three-year contract, following his unexpected release from the Knights. The decision marks a significant shift for both clubs, with Best now set to bring his explosive power and try-scoring ability to the nation’s capital starting from the 2026 season.
For Newcastle fans, the news comes as a bitter pill to swallow. Bradman Best, a local junior and fan favourite, has been a cornerstone of the Knights’ backline since making his debut in 2019. Known for his barnstorming runs, physicality, and ability to turn half-chances into points, Best has long been considered one of the NRL’s brightest young centres. However, despite his impressive form and growing reputation, contract talks between Best’s management and the Knights reportedly stalled over salary cap constraints and long-term strategic shifts within the club.
According to sources close to the negotiation, Newcastle had hoped to retain Best but were unable to match the Raiders’ offer—believed to be worth around $2.1 million over three seasons. Canberra, on the other hand, were quick to seize the opportunity, identifying Best as the perfect fit for their new era of rebuilding under coach Ricky Stuart.
In a statement released by the Raiders, head coach Stuart praised Best’s professionalism and talent, describing him as a “game-changing addition” to the squad.
> “Bradman is a player who brings size, aggression, and genuine strike power out wide,” Stuart said. “He’s the kind of athlete who can turn a match on its head, and we’re thrilled to have him join our club for the next chapter of his career.
For Best, the move represents both a challenge and a fresh start. After years of battling through injuries and inconsistent team performances in Newcastle, the 23-year-old centre now looks forward to becoming a key figure in Canberra’s push to return to finals contention. In a brief statement, Best thanked the Knights for shaping him into the player he is today but said he was ready to embrace a new opportunity.
> “Newcastle will always be home for me,” Best said. “But this move to Canberra is about growth—both personally and professionally. I’m excited for what’s ahead and can’t wait to get started.”
The departure leaves a notable gap in the Knights’ backline heading into next season, forcing head coach Adam O’Brien to reassess his attacking structure. Newcastle is expected to rely on younger players such as Krystian Mapapalangi and Enari Tuala to step up and fill the void left by Best’s exit.
For Canberra, however, this signing is seen as a statement of intent. The Raiders have been seeking to strengthen their outside backs since the departure of Jack Wighton and Jordan Rapana, and Best’s arrival signals a clear commitment to rebuilding a dangerous and dynamic attack.
As the dust settles on this surprise transfer, one thing is clear—Bradman Best’s move from Newcastle to Canberra is poised to reshape both clubs’ fortunes and could become one of the defining signings of the 2026 NRL season.
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