LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
Payne Haas has agreed to a three-year contract with South Sydney, reuniting him with coach Wayne Bennett.
The Brisbane prop's move to the Rabbitohs stunned the NRL community when the club announced the deal on Sunday.
The 26-year-old, a Samoa and NSW representative, has signed subject to a 10-day cooling-off period during which he could still change his mind.
"Haas and his management have advised the Broncos that he intends to depart the club at the end of the 2026 season".
Haas was a key member of Brisbane's 2025 premiership team but had chosen not to extend his contract beyond the upcoming season.
Earlier speculation linked him with the proposed R360 rugby union competition and a planned PNG franchise for 2028, options that never materialized.
Expectations at the Broncos had been that he might re-sign for at least another year, making the departure unexpected.
Bennett originally handed Haas his NRL debut in 2018 when the forward was still a teenager, and their reunion is significant for Souths.
The signing represents a major reinforcement of the Rabbitohs' forward pack and addresses a long-standing need for more impact up front.
Haas shares a close bond with new recruit David Fifita, teammates from his early Broncos seasons, and the pair should provide strong physical presence together.
With Test forward Keaon Koloamatangi set to move to St George Illawarra next season, Haas's arrival fills an important gap for Souths.
The acquisition adds experience, power and championship pedigree to Bennett's roster as the club prepares for future campaigns.