Veteran journalist Phil Rothfield has declared the Knights are “in a world of pain” heading into the 2026 season.
Reports emerged on Monday that Roosters star Sandon Smith had reportedly agreed to a four-year deal with Newcastle beginning in 2026.
Smith is expected to play hooker for the Knights in a new-look spine that will also include Dylan Brown from the Eels, who will join Newcastle on a mammoth 10-year deal worth $13 million.
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But the additions of Smith and Brown don’t seem to have swayed Rothfield into thinking the Knights will improve in 2026, after they collected the dreaded wooden spoon this season.
The Knights lost their last nine games of the season, including a 66-10 thumping at the hands of the Eels in Round 27.
“I reckon they’re in a world of pain,” Rothfield said on NRL 360 on Monday night.
“(Josh) Hannay’s knocking them back.
“You manage Willie Peters,” Rothfield said, speaking to host Braith Anasta.
“I hear he’s not keen.
“Minus 300 for and against.
“They are in so much pain that footy club.
“No green shoots, whatever you call them.
“There’s nothing there.”
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But reporter Brent Read pointed out that Knights star Kalyn Ponga was missing for part of the season, with the fullback only featuring in 13 games in 2025.
“They didn’t have Kalyn for half the year. He’s their best player,” Read said.
“Did you see them playing when he was on the field this year?” Rothfield asked.
“He was poor.”
Read was prepared to give Ponga the benefit of the doubt.
“He was down on form but he’ll be better next year.”