Darren Mooney praised Tuku Hau Tapuha's development, noting he started in the front row for Newtown's 2024 premiership-winning campaign and this year's Grand Final.
Cronulla has signed the 24-year-old forward to a two-year extension, keeping him at the club until at least the end of 2028.
Hau Tapuha was due off contract after 2026 but was not listed among the Sharks' end-of-season departures.
Departures among Cronulla's middle forwards could create more first-grade opportunities for him in 2027.
"My goals are pretty clear. I want to find some consistency in first grade and keep improving my game."
"With a number of middle forwards moving on, he has a great opportunity to establish himself as a consistent NRL player in 2027," Mooney said.
New Zealand-born Hau Tapuha debuted for the Roosters in 2021, playing three games before joining Cronulla in 2024; he has made 19 appearances for the Sharks.
He also represented the Maori All Stars in 2022.