NRL Las Vegas Combine Champion Marcus D’Acre Joins Newcastle Knights

Newcastle’s efforts in recruitment are in full swing following the recent acquisition of Dylan Brown, who signed a remarkable 10-year deal worth $14 million this week.

However, their latest signing comes at a fraction of that cost yet possesses the potential to draw considerable attention.

MARCUS D’ACRE, the 20-year-old winner of the NRL combine, is set to join the Knights on the league’s most economical agreement—a train-and-trial contract worth $1200 per week, with half of that covered by the NRL and entirely exempt from the salary cap.

OPINION: $14 million wasted: Brown is not the answer for the Knights

In an interview with The Sydney Morning Herald, D’Acre, who also garnered interest from the North Queensland Cowboys, expressed that the Knights believe in his potential to evolve into an NRL player soon.

“Time is definitely on my side. Newcastle are a fantastic club, and I genuinely believe they can help me realise my ambitions to become a great player,” D’Acre commented.

“My agent highlighted that it’s a reputable club with a storied history, and the management seemed very committed to aiding my development as an NRL player.

“They conveyed a strong interest in nurturing me to achieve my fullest potential.”

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“This isn’t a quick fix; it’s a commitment that will take three to four years. They appear willing to invest the time in me to help me grow. That’s what I seek in a rugby career—support from those who understand the sport and can guide me.”

D’Acre has confirmed that he will primarily play in the outside backs and will make his way to Newcastle in May while also pursuing an economics degree at Queen’s University in Canada.

“I’m taking things step by step. Starting on the wing and in the centres is a fantastic opportunity,” said D’Acre, who has represented both Canada and Hong Kong at the national level in rugby union.

“As I become more familiar with the patterns, shapes, and calls, I can envision myself moving down the ranks based on how I adapt and the enjoyment I derive from it.”

“I believe I possess the potential to make a significant impact in rugby league,” he continued. “It’s going to take time. I’ve been following the sport for ages, and I’m fortunate enough to have trained with the Sharks and had a close-up experience with those players.

“I’ve seen the standard of play, and it’s among the best rugby I’ve encountered in person. With some patience, I’m excited to see where this opportunity might lead me.”