Jackson Hastings has spoken out for the first time about growing speculation linking him with a move to the Super League, as his time with the Newcastle Knights nears its conclusion.
The 28-year-old halfback, who joined the Knights from the Wests Tigers, is set to depart at the end of the 2025 NRL season after head coach Adam O’Brien confirmed earlier this year that the club will not be offering him a new contract.
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Since his arrival in Newcastle, Hastings has struggled to cement a regular first-grade spot, falling down the pecking order behind Fletcher Sharpe, Jack Cogger, Phoenix Crossland, and Tyson Gamble.
He spent a large portion of 2024 in the NSW Cup and even began this year playing out of position at lock before briefly returning to first-grade last weekend against the Roosters.
Despite constant links to Super League clubs — with Leeds Rhinos reportedly interested — Hastings insists he is not rushing into any decision about his future.
“Of course I’m hopeful to be in the NRL. I’ll just let my manager take care of that, just play good footy, and I’m not too worried about that at the moment,” he told NRL.com. “I think people need to realise how much I actually love playing here. Whether I’m here or not, I love putting this jersey on, and I’ve loved my time playing for the Knights.”
Hastings, who won the Super League’s Man of Steel award in 2019 during his time with Salford, remains open to filling any role that keeps him involved at the top level.
“I want to be playing first grade as much as I can, but the boys that are playing in front of me are doing a great job,” he said. “I’ve just got to bide my time, work hard, and be ready when my chance comes. I can play most positions—maybe not wing or centre, I’m slow as a wet week—but I’ll always do what’s needed.”
As the 2025 season progresses and his exit from Newcastle looms, speculation over his next move is expected to intensify — with a return to the UK a strong possibility if NRL opportunities remain limited.
