Zac Laybutt will join the PNG Chiefs in 2028, signing a two-year deal when his North Queensland Cowboys contract ends after 2027.
The 24-year-old will be the club's player No. 008 and the fifth Kumuls representative committed for its inaugural season.
CEO Lorna McPherson said, "We are delighted to have signed Zac, and his signing is particularly meaningful for us as we build a club that proudly represents PNG," in a club statement.
Laybutt has played 42 NRL games since debuting for the Cowboys in 2023, including a career-high 20 matches this season.
He scored three tries, made 34 tackle breaks and averaged 99 running metres per game, with 83.9% tackle efficiency.
Capable of playing wing or centre, he adds outside-back depth and attacking creativity when he gets consistent game time, following recent injury problems.
Laybutt debuted for the Kumuls in 2023, helping them win the Pacific Bowl against Fiji, and has since earned eight Test caps, including at the 2026 Rugby League World Cup.
Alex Johnston was signing No. 002, while Finley Glare, Gairo Voro and Morea Morea have development contracts.