Payne Haas Signs Three-Year Deal with South Sydney Rabbitohs
Payne Haas has signed a three-year contract with the South Sydney Rabbitohs, commencing in the 2027 National Rugby League (NRL) season. The agreement will see Haas depart the Brisbane Broncos at the conclusion of the 2026 season. The announcement was made on Sunday, with both clubs confirming the development.
Contract Confirmed: 2027-2029 Seasons
The contract secures Haas with the South Sydney Rabbitohs for the 2027, 2028, and 2029 seasons. The news was initially reported by Code Sports.
The Brisbane Broncos confirmed that Haas and his management had advised the club of his intention to leave after the 2026 season.
Both the Broncos and the Rabbitohs stated that a signed contract reflecting this position has been lodged with the NRL, pending a mandatory ten-day cooling-off period. Both clubs also stated they would not comment further until this period expires.
Haas is currently preparing to travel to England with the Broncos for a World Club Challenge match against Hull KR later in the month. He has reportedly informed his Brisbane teammates of his decision.
Previous Speculation and Challenges
Haas's future has been a subject of discussion during the off-season. Earlier reports suggested he was set to sign a one-year contract extension with the Brisbane Broncos, which would have secured him until the end of the 2027 season, upon his return from the World Club Challenge trip.
The Broncos had reportedly offered a three-year contract, which Haas's management was said to have declined in favor of a 12-month extension to allow for future contract options. Broncos coach Michael Maguire had recently stated he did not believe Haas would leave the club.
Previous speculation also linked Haas to:
-
The R360 Rugby Competition: Haas was reportedly considering a code switch to R360, though its start date has been delayed until 2028. Reports indicated Haas desired to remain within the NRL.
-
The Papua New Guinea Chiefs: The Broncos had reportedly expressed concern about the potential for Haas to join the anticipated 19th NRL franchise, slated to commence in 2028. The PNG Chiefs were expected to have advantages in player recruitment, including the ability to offer tax-free salaries and operate with a $12 million salary cap.
This new franchise could potentially table contracts worth up to $1.5 million per season for players like Haas.
Brisbane chairman Karl Morris had reportedly sought clarity on Haas's long-term plans, and Broncos chief executive Dave Donaghy acknowledged the PNG franchise as a significant recruitment challenge.
The Recruitment Drive
South Sydney Rabbitohs coach Wayne Bennett, who previously coached Haas at the Broncos where Haas debuted in 2018, was involved in facilitating the transfer. Bennett had a prior history with Haas, having convinced him as a teenager to remain in Brisbane over joining the Melbourne Storm, and later signing him to a six-year contract upgrade early in his career.
The opportunity for the Rabbitohs reportedly arose after player Keaon Koloamatangi informed Bennett of his decision to join St George Illawarra, which freed up salary cap space.
Rabbitohs players Latrell Mitchell and David Fifita were involved in discussions with Haas. Coach Bennett stated that the idea to recruit Haas originated from Latrell Mitchell over 12 months ago. Mitchell and Fifita communicated with Haas via text messages. Fifita and Haas previously played together for the Broncos from 2018 to 2020, and Fifita recently joined the Rabbitohs this off-season. Mitchell has also played alongside Haas at representative levels for New South Wales and Australia.
Implications and Player Reactions
For the Brisbane Broncos, Haas's departure represents a significant roster change. For the South Sydney Rabbitohs, the acquisition of a State of Origin and Test prop is regarded as a major addition, particularly as Haas, at 26 years old, is entering what is considered the prime age for front-row players. The signing has drawn comparisons to past high-profile transfers in rugby league.
Haas's contract with the Rabbitohs extends until the end of 2029, which is beyond Coach Wayne Bennett's current contract with South Sydney that concludes at the end of 2027. This has led to speculation regarding Bennett's potential future coaching career beyond 2027.
Following the announcement, Broncos player Reece Walsh posted on social media:
"Always love my brother. Make this one (the 2026 season) count."
Latrell Mitchell reposted an image from South Sydney and commented:
"Chess not checkers," in reference to the signing.