The South Sydney Rabbitohs have confirmed a new three-year deal for Jye Gray in a move that all-but ratifies Latrell Mitchell’s permanent switch to centre in 2026. Gray has emerged as the Rabbitohs’ fullback of the future, and has recommitted to the club until the end of 2029.
The 21-year-old was previously only under contract until the end of 2026, and had been offered a mega-money switch to R360. But the Rabbitohs and Gray confirmed on Monday that he’s staying put.
“I’m really grateful to Souths for giving me the opportunity to stay at this great club,” Gray said on Monday afternoon. “I’m determined to repay the faith they have shown in me by putting my best foot forward over the next few years to help us achieve our goals. I love playing for this club and its members, and I can’t wait to get back out onto the field in the red and green.”
Jye Gray’s (R) contract extension all-but confirms Latrell Mitchell’s (L) move to centre. Image: AAP
Tellingly, South Sydney’s head of football Mark Ellison made mention of Gray’s work at fullback when lauding his re-signing. “Jye was the best player in the NRL competition for the first half of last season and his performances all year for us were outstanding,” Ellison said.
“His performances were so good that he attracted interest in his services elsewhere. However, he sees his future is at the South Sydney Rabbitohs, and that is something very exciting for everyone associated with the club.
“He is safe under the high ball, he returns the ball with great speed, his footwork is mesmerising, and his defence is inspiring. He is a great character around the team, he is a player that his teammates love to play with, and his coaches love to coach. We could not be happier to have Jye extending with us and we are all looking forward to continuing our work with him as his performances continue to inspire everyone.”
Jye Gray has cemented himself as the Rabbitohs’ fullback. (Photo by Matt King/Getty Images)
Latrell Mitchell all-but certain for permanent move to centre
Gray’s contract extension all-but confirms that he’ll remain in the No.1 jersey in 2026, which will mean Mitchell makes a permanent switch to left centre. Mitchell has always preferred playing fullback, but has shown at rep level he’s a gun centre.
Gray has made it impossible for the Rabbitohs to put Mitchell back to fullback as it would mean Gray goes to the bench or reserve grade. But with Gray and Mitchell both in the line-up they’re a much stronger team.
Wayne Bennett and the Rabbitohs will reportedly utilise Mitchell on the left in 2026 outside recruit David Fifita. Alex Johnston will line up on the left wing in what shapes as a potent attacking edge.
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The Rabbitohs will be hoping Mitchell’s move to centre can help him avoid the injury curse that’s struck over the last few years. He only played 11 games in 2025, and averages 14 per season in his time at the Rabbitohs.
“I think it’s worth Latrell playing in the centres to try and get more footy out of him,” Greg Alexander said on SEN radio. “If in fact, it does get more footy out of him. Because he has been playing in the centres (yet still sidelined with injury).”
The silver lining to Mitchell’s injuries is it’s opened the door for Gray to prove himself as a starting fullback. With Gray cementing himself as the Bunnies’ No.1, there’s plenty of excitement for what 2026 holds.