The New Zealand Warriors have signed pathways product Jason Salalilo to a long-term contract that will keep him at the club until at least 2029, along with a promotion to the NRL top 30 squad for the next season.
This adaptable forward, capable of playing both at the front and on the edge, began his journey with the Warriors' under 19s SG Ball team in 2024 and quickly advanced to their under 21s Jersey Flegg squad within the same year.
In 2025, Salalilo earned a promotion to the NSW Cup team, and his diligence has now granted him a spot on the six-man bench for the NRL match this weekend.
Warriors coach Andrew Webster may introduce the Christchurch-born powerhouse into the game, depending on how things unfold.
"Jason has so much to offer, a player who has made the most of every opportunity he has been given," said Webster in a Warriors statement.
"He's a middle forward who brings plenty of energy and intensity in all he does.
"He's another example of the outstanding talent we have coming through the pathways and we see him playing a key role for us in the coming years."
Although injuries hindered the beginning of his 2026 season, Salalilo is currently averaging 100 metres and 22 tackles per game, maintaining a 95 percent tackle efficiency across five matches, along with 16 tackle breaks.
He was a pivotal part of the premiership-winning Warriors team, helping secure victories against the Dragons in the NSW Cup Grand Final and the Burleigh Bears in the State Championship.