BREAKING NEWS: Newcastle Knights Legend Andrew Johns Returns as Chief Director of Football In a monumental announcement, Newcastle Knights CEO Geoff Coburn and family has officially declared that Andrew Johns the legendary Halfback and long-time face of the franchise, will return to the organization in 2026 as Director of Football V..……. see more
BREAKING NEWS: Newcastle Knights Legend Andrew Johns Returns as Chief Director of Football
The move marks one of the most significant homecomings in NRL history, reuniting the Knights with the man widely regarded as the greatest halfback the game has ever seen. Johns, a two-time premiership winner and lifelong symbol of Newcastle pride, will take on a sweeping leadership role overseeing football operations, pathways, recruitment, and on-field philosophy.
“This is more than a football decision — it’s a cultural moment for our club,” Coburn said during the announcement at McDonald Jones Stadium. “Andrew Johns is the Newcastle Knights. His knowledge, passion, and standards will shape the future of this club for generations.”
Johns, who played 249 games for the Knights and led the club to historic premierships in 1997 and 2001, expressed deep emotion about returning in an official capacity.
“Newcastle is home,” Johns said. “This club gave me everything, and now I have the opportunity to give something back — not just to the team, but to the city, the fans, and the next generation of Knights players.”
Sources close to the club suggest Johns will play a hands-on role in mentoring spine players, refining game strategy, and rebuilding the Knights’ identity around toughness, resilience, and attacking brilliance — hallmarks of the club’s golden era.
Players and fans alike have already embraced the announcement, with social media flooded by messages celebrating the return of the Knights’ most iconic figure. Former teammates have described the move as a “masterstroke,” predicting Johns’ influence will immediately lift standards across the organization.
The appointment is expected to be finalized later this year, with Johns officially commencing his role ahead of the 2026 NRL season.
