Chris Clancy and a five-year-old girl remained in hospital after a car struck 10 fans farewelling the Knights' bus to Sydney.
The girl was in a serious condition and faced a long recovery, while the Newcastle Knights said players would visit both patients later in the week.
On Monday, 18-year-old driver Indika Bambrick Samarasinghe was refused bail after being charged over Sunday's crash.
Thousands of supporters welcomed the team back to McDonald Jones Stadium after its 19-18 grand final defeat to the Roosters.
The Knights had fallen one win short of their first premiership in 25 years, but fans celebrated the season's progress from last year's wooden spoon.
Club boss Peter Parr began the event by acknowledging those affected by the crash.
"First thing I'd like to do today is to acknowledge the people that were impacted in the afternoon, on Sunday morning," he said.
"We're sending them as much love as we can."
Newcastle Lord Mayor Gavin Morris said the crash had taken the heart out of the city, but urged the crowd to look ahead.
"I'll never mention that person's name (the driver) because it's done now … from here, it is nothing but a joyous occasion. We are going to rise back up again," the Lord Mayor told the crowd.
Morris also raised the prospect of giving each player a key to the city if the Knights win next year.
Outgoing players Dane Gagai and Tyson Frizell addressed supporters, with Frizell reflecting on his first NRL grand final after more than 300 games.
"Especially with the strength and support we had throughout the week, it was pretty emotional," he said.
"It's a pity we didn't come home with the trophy … but hopefully we're in a better place."