LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
A young forward from the North Queensland Cowboys is gaining attention after a strong performance in reserve-grade this year. While he wasn't among the seven players released by the Cowboys at the conclusion of the 2025 NRL season, the future of Jeremiah Mata'utia is uncertain.
A standout in school sports at the renowned Kirwan State High School, Mata'utia is just starting his career but has yet to make a significant impact, primarily competing in the QLD Cup for the Mackay Cutters.
This season, he was promoted to the NRL squad under a train-and-trial contract, and according to All Out Rugby League, he has caught the eye of the Leeds Rhinos, a team in the Super League.
Though he has not yet played in an NRL match, the 21-year-old has participated in 29 QLD Cup games, which qualifies him for a Governing Body Endorsement (GBE). This endorsement would enable him to move to the UK, where the Rhinos are considering him as a potential replacement for Sam Lisone, who is leaving the team.