Last season proved that the NRL<\/a> is only getting more competitive, and with the player shuffle in full swing, the next level of footy is coming.<\/p>\n Every team, except for the Cronulla Sharks<\/a>, have new player signings for the 2026 season.\u00a0<\/p>\n Now is the perfect time for reinvention and refinement, allowing the bottom-tier clubs to redefine their teams and the top-tier clubs to elevate themselves to the next level.\u00a0<\/p>\n Here are Zero Tackle’s top five recruits who could change their new clubs for the better in 2026 and beyond.<\/p>\n Dylan Brown to the Newcastle Knights<\/p>\n The Newcastle Knights<\/a> made history last year, securing Parramatta Eels<\/a> playmaker Dylan Brown<\/a> on a mammoth ten-year, reported $13 million deal.<\/p>\n With no get-out clauses understood to be included, Brown looks likely to spend the rest of his NRL<\/a> career in Newcastle.<\/p>\n The landmark signing signals the beginning of a complete rebuild for the Knights under new head coach Justin Holbrook<\/a>.\u00a0<\/p>\n At his best, Brown is widely regarded as one of the most dynamic and dangerous five-eighths in the game.\u00a0<\/p>\n Last season, however, Brown found himself benched or left out entirely at Parramatta amid his impending exit and a dip in form.<\/p>\n Despite this, his potential to redefine the Knights remains enormous, particularly if Holbrook continues to use him at five-eighth rather than halfback as reflected in this weekend’s upcoming trial match.<\/p>\n Brown thrives when given space to play instinctively and utilise his elite running game.<\/p>\n![\"NRL](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/089A5442_e-scaled.jpg.webp.webp\")
SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA – AUGUST 23: Dylan Brown playing in the NRL match between Penrith Panthers and Sydney Roosters at CommBank Stadium, on August 23, 2025, in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Joshua Davis\/Zero Digital Sports)<\/p>\n