Centre Rigg has scored 10 tries in 29 appearances for Exeter Chiefs since joining the club from Coventry Rugby
10:34, 27 Jan 2026Updated 14:03, 27 Jan 2026
Exeter Chiefs’ Will Rigg celebrates scoring his sides second try against Saracens (Photo by Bob Bradford – CameraSport via Getty Images)
Will Rigg’s line-breaking ability at centre has been highlighted as one of the key reasons Newcastle Red Bulls have signed the physical 25-year-old from Exeter Chiefs ahead of next season.
Rigg quickly established himself as a fan favourite at Sandy Park since arriving from Champ Rugby side Coventry, but has found first-team game time hard to come by, scoring 10 tries in 29 appearances in all competitions for Exeter since making his debut against Newcastle.
He joins current Chiefs teammates Josh Hodge and Rusi Tuima in making the move to the northern Gallagher PREM club ahead of the 2026/27 season.
Newcastle Red Bulls sporting general manager Neil McIlroy said: “Will has shown plenty of line-breaking ability during his time with Exeter, which will be a big asset for us as we look to build our game over the next few seasons.
“He’s a physical ball carrier with a good turn of pace, and I’m looking forward to seeing his continued progress within our environment.”
Rigg said: “I’d like to thank the club for the opportunities it has given me to play at the highest level. Playing with and against some of the best players in the world has been amazing and for this, I’ll always be grateful.
“The timing is right, however, for me to move on and explore an exciting new project. Personally, I believe the move is the right thing for my own rugby development and I am excited for the next step in my career.
“I’d like to personally thank the supporters for all their positivity towards both me and the team in the time I’ve been here. Through highs and lows, you’ve always stuck by us.
“Finally, to the lads, thanks for all the memories both on and off the pitch, it’s been a pleasure. We aren’t done yet, I’m still hopeful to make some positive contributions to this team throughout the remainder of the season. I hugely believe we are capable of winning trophies, and I would love to help towards that.”
With Wallabie Len Ikitau having only signed for one season, Chiefs director of rugby Rob Baxter is set to bring in some reinforcements in the midfled, with Bath Rugby’s Will Butt expected to make the move to Sandy Park.
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