EXCLUSIVE: Andrew Johns Cautions Knights Over $13m Dylan Brown Agreement, Highlights ‘Pressure’ from Agent Influence

Newcastle Knights legend Andrew Johns is open to the idea of Dylan Brown joining the club; however, he believes the young playmaker isn’t worth the hefty sum being proposed by the Knights.

Brown has been in the spotlight recently after his manager sent out an email to all 16 NRL clubs back in January, offering the talented Kiwi’s services for the 2026 season and onwards.

This assertive tactic raised eyebrows, particularly since Brown is under contract with the Parramatta Eels until 2032, although his deal includes some contentious clauses that could allow him to leave the Eels sooner.

At just 24 years of age, Brown is reportedly earning around $1 million a season with the Eels, but the Knights have put forth a remarkable 10-year offer valued at $13 million.

Meanwhile, the Hunter-based club is already contributing $1.4 million annually to fullback Kalyn Ponga. With a combined investment of $2.7 million in just these two players, the Knights would have less than $9.5 million to allocate to the remaining 28 players on the roster for next year.

Johns, who has previously worked with Brown as a halves coach at Parramatta during Brad Arthur’s tenure, appreciates the potential of the five-eighth but argues that the salary being discussed should be reserved for seasoned game-managing playmakers.

“No, not as a five-eighth, if they’re going to sign Dylan at that figure,” Johns shared with Wide World of Sports’ Immortal Behaviour.

“It’s a significant amount of money. He is undoubtedly a talented player, and when he excels, he’s world-class. However, with that price tag comes immense pressure.”

“Having worked with Dylan, I can say he’s a great young bloke, tough and committed in training… but I’m not sure if he possesses the skills needed to be a leading playmaker.”

“I would love to see him don the Knights colours, but whether that can happen is uncertain.”

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While Brown showcases talent as a No.6, his capability to assume control as a halfback has been under scrutiny for years.

This Sunday, he’ll get another opportunity to quash the sceptics when Parramatta faces Melbourne in the absence of Origin halfback Mitchell Moses, who is sidelined for the first six weeks of the NRL season due to injury.

Johns remarked that following his agent’s audacious approach for a more lucrative deal for Brown, the rugby league community will have their eyes fixed on the Eels star.

“It seems that every time you read the paper lately, there’s discussion about where Dylan might land, along with certain clauses from his contract,” Johns commented.

“Everyone in the rugby league world will be watching Dylan this round one and forming their opinions.”

“I don’t think it will impact him much; he’s a pretty relaxed character… however, come Monday, there will be extensive discussions surrounding Dylan and how he performed without Moses.”

Johns expressed his disapproval of Brown’s agent Gavin Orr reaching out to other clubs.

“He secured a seven-year contract. To me, if you commit to a contract, that’s your word—your integrity,” he stated.

“This puts unnecessary pressure on Dylan. If Parramatta starts off slowly, he will bear the brunt of it.”

“The role of a player manager is to alleviate the pressure from the player, not to increase it.”