The Broncos have confirmed the signing of a pair of outside backs, with Wilson de Courcey and Richard Penisini joining the Brisbane club.
Penisini has signed a development contract for 2027, joining from the Eels where he spent a stint with his brother Will, who is one of Parramatta’s first choice centres.
The 21-year-old made his NSW Cup debut in 2023, but has been limited to only 16 reserve grade games due to a wave of injuries — which the Broncos confirmed he has overcome.
WHAT’S GAMBLING REALLY COSTING YOU? Set a deposit limit. For Free and confidential support call 1800 858 858 or visit gamblinghelponline.org.au.
Watch Australia’s Tour of South Africa Live & Exclusive on Fox Cricket, available on Kayo Sports | New to Kayo? Join now and get your first month for just $1.
An ACL injury saw him sidelined for the full 2024 season, while a meniscus tear in his right knee cut his 2026 campaign short.
“Richie is another talented young outside back who has gained valuable experience playing NSW Cup,” general manager of football Troy Thomson said in a statement.
“He has shown a lot of potential, has good physical attributes and a strong work ethic.
“He is now back to full fitness and we’re looking forward to seeing what he can produce through the pre-season and into 2027.”
Coach Michael Maguire has landed a pair of outside backs.Source: News Corp Australia
De Courcey, meanwhile, has signed a two-year deal, slotting into Michael Maguire’s top 30 after joining the Knights from the Panthers in 2023.
The 21-year-old has already enjoyed a taste of first grade after he made his NRL debut in Round 5 this season, having also scored 18 tries in 20 NSW Cup games in 2026.
“Wilson is a strong centre who has worked his way through the NSW Cup over the past two seasons,” Thomson said.
“He has shown consistency and has continued to develop his game.
“Wilson gives us another quality option in the outside backs and will provide strong competition within the squad.”
MORE NRL NEWS
NOV 1 WC WINNERS/LOSERS: Career-threatening twist; contender’s $1.4m tightrope
‘WANTED TO STAY’: Star makes raw admission over ‘tough’ club switch
CRAWLS: Anthem outrage completely missed the point. Here’s why
Kiwis survive almighty Fiji scare | 00:48
EELS EXTEND STANDOUT SIGNING
Elsewhere, the much-improved Brian Kelly has been rewarded for a stellar 2026 season in the blue and gold after signing a one-year extension with the Eels.
Kelly was one of Parramatta’s best and most consistent performers in an otherwise dour year for the club, honoured as a dual recepient of the Ken Thornett Medal for Best and Fairest alongside Jack Williams.
Kelly signed with the Eels in 2026 after a long stint with the Titans and was a relatively unheralded pick-up at the time.
But the 30-year-old quickly proved himself to be one of the more astute signings of the season.
He was already contracted until the end of 2027 but now Kelly will be hanging around at Parramatta until at least 2028.
“Brian has been a wonderful addition to our team since arriving at the club,” Parramatta Eels General Manager of Football Mark O’Neill said.
“He had a slow start to the season with a few niggling injuries, but his hard work and determination saw him overcome these challenges and play some of his best football.
“He topped our total running metres and showed tremendous instincts and skill with some of his performances.
“His professional approach set a great example for our younger players, and being recognised as a dual Ken Thornett Medalist this year reflects the respect he has earned throughout the club. We’re pleased that he’ll continue his journey with the Eels.”
Brian Kelly of the Eels. (Photo by Darrian Traynor/Getty Images)Source: Getty Images
PNG CHIEFS’ NEWEST ASSISTANT REVEALED
The PNG Chiefs have reportedly signed Trent Hodkinson, who is set to become one of Willie Peters assistant coaches for their inaugural NRL campaign.
The former halfback played 174 first grade games, as well as six for NSW, becoming a cult hero when he masterminded a drought-breaking Origin series victory in 2014.
Since he hung up the boots in 2019, Hodkinson has been plying his trade as an assistant coach with the NSW under 19s and Central Queensland Capras.
Now, according to 7News’ Jelisa Apps, he has signed a three-year with the Chiefs, who will make their NRL debut in 2028.
Get all the latest NRL news, highlights and analysis delivered straight to your inbox with Fox Sports Sportmail. Sign up now!!!
Hodkinson is also set to make the move to Papua New Guinea in December this year, where he will help with “building the side”.
Peters has already welcomed a host of marquee recruits into his squad, having recruited seven players into their top 30 as it stands.
Jarome Luai, Alex Johnston, Brian To’o, Zac Lomax, Joey Manu, Matty Lees and Connor Watson are the stars currently signed.
Meanwhile, PNG trio Gairo Voro, Morea Morea and Finley Glare have put pen to paper on development contracts for the 2028 season.