Tyson Frizell played through a busted rib as Newcastle's grand-final campaign ended in a 19-18 defeat to the Sydney Roosters.
The Knights were also without suspended Phoenix Crossland and Dylan Brown, whose season had been cut short by a mid-year injury.
Coach Justin Holbrook said the narrow loss could not diminish his pride in the team.
"I've never watched a harder game of footy, I am so proud but you just felt for them," Holbrook said.
"To still be in it at the end there was an enormous effort from the boys."
He said the Roosters' defence kept Newcastle under pressure, but the team's spirit kept them in contention late.
"The spirit in the playing group meant we were still in there with a couple of minutes to go."
Captain Kalyn Ponga said the Knights had shown they could contend for the title again in 2027, after rising from wooden spooners to grand-finalists in a year.
"Nothing is given, we still have to earn everything we get next year," Ponga said.
"The youth that is coming through, it gives us evidence we can do it."
Halfback Sandon Smith said the defeat could motivate the team's pre-season preparation.
"It's so disappointing because it's hard to get here. It's not going to happen every year, but we'll use this feeling of motivation next year."
Holbrook said Newcastle must fight through next season for another chance, while believing a full-strength side could have changed the result.