Off-Season Central: A New Chapter for Titans and Knights
The 2025 NRL season may be finished, but the rugby league landscape remains abuzz with significant off-season movements. From a bold release that shifts a player back to rugby union to a coaching reshuffle that could redefine the Knights in 2026, clubs are already charting their paths for the coming year.
Gordon Released by Titans to Return to Rugby Union
The Gold Coast Titans confirmed an immediate release for Carter Gordon, finalizing a financial settlement with Rugby Australia that clears the way for the Wallabies’ playmaker to return to rugby union. The club stated that with one year left on his Titans contract, it acted decisively to prioritize long-term roster management and ensure a smooth transition.
“The Gold Coast Titans can confirm Carter Gordon has been granted an early release from the final year of his contract following a comprehensive financial settlement with Rugby Australia,” the club said in a statement. “After thorough negotiations, the Titans have agreed to an immediate release that prioritises the club’s long-term roster management.”
Gordon’s Titans tenure was hampered by a cerebrospinal fluid leak, limiting his opportunities to impact the team. He managed only a single NRL appearance in the final round after joining ahead of the 2024 season. The club emphasized the support provided throughout his injury and recovery, noting his gratitude for the opportunity to test himself in the NRL. Gordon added a gracious reflection on his time in gold, thanking the Titans and wishing the club continued success.
Holbrook’s Coaching Overhaul at the Knights
In the Hunter, Justin Holbrook is assembling his coaching staff for 2026. Reports indicate former Knights stalwart Danny Buderus has been appointed as Holbrook’s assistant, signaling a shift toward a values-driven, hands-on approach. Buderus, a Knights legend with 257 appearances, is expected to be a key sounding board and on-field developer for the squad.
Holbrook praised Buderus’ character and on-field impact, saying, “He’s the most capped Knights player and I want to utilise him a lot more in terms of coaching.” The move forms part of a broader backroom shake-up following Adam O’Brien’s departure and a season that yielded the wooden spoon for the Knights. The coaching changes also see other personnel realignments across rival clubs, underlining how the offseason is about more than players alone.
Panthers Respond to Bears Coaching Raid
The Penrith Panthers are not immune to the broader coaching carousel. With Ben Gardiner joining the NRL expansion Perth Bears, the Panthers have begun reshuffling their own staff. NSW Cup coach Ben Harden has reportedly been promoted to Ivan Cleary’s deputy, while Jono Rolfe, the Jersey Flegg coach, will move into the pathways system. The changes signal a commitment to youth development and continuity in the face of workforce movement across the league.
Gardiner’s departure was announced in June as he prepared to join Mal Meninga’s coaching team with the Bears. The Panthers’ moves aim to maintain stability while integrating fresh perspectives at key developmental stages, ensuring a pipeline of talent ready to step up as the next generation of NRL stars.
What This Means for the Off Season
These developments illustrate a busy off-season where clubs are balancing immediate roster concerns with long-term strategic planning. For Carter Gordon, the transition to rugby union means an opportunity to reestablish himself at a higher level with the Wallabies. For the Knights and Panthers, the coaching changes are about cultivating leadership, accountability, and depth across multiple age groups. As clubs navigate contracts, settlements, and staff movements, fans can expect a steady stream of announcements in the weeks ahead as teams prepare for a competitive return in 2026.
Stay Tuned
Follow our Off Season Central for the latest updates, analysis, and reaction as the NRL and rugby union worlds continue to intersect in 2025. Live coverage remains available on FOX LEAGUE via Kayo, with uninterrupted play and expert commentary guiding fans through the holiday period.
