Jake Clifford Signs Two-Year Extension with North Queensland Cowboys

Key facts

• Jake Clifford has signed a two-year contract extension with the North Queensland Cowboys.
• The new deal will keep Clifford at the club until the end of the 2028 NRL season.
• Clifford has played 98 NRL games, including 73 for the Cowboys across two stints.
• He returned to the Cowboys in 2024 after playing in the UK Super League.
• Clifford has scored four tries and assisted seven in nine games in 2026.
• The Cowboys' halves pairing of Clifford and Tom Dearden has been highlighted as a strength.
• Clifford was named NYC Player of the Year in 2017.
• Tom Dearden is contracted to the Cowboys until the end of the 2029 season.

Clifford Commits to Cowboys' Future

The North Queensland Toyota Cowboys have secured the services of playmaker Jake Clifford for an additional two seasons, extending his contract through to the end of the 2028 NRL campaign. This agreement solidifies the club's halves combination, which has shown significant promise. Clifford's resurgence this season has been a key factor in the Cowboys' strong start, prompting the club to reward his form. His commitment ensures continuity in a crucial position as the team aims for sustained success. The five-eighth's decision to remain in Townsville was described as a "no-brainer" for his family, emphasizing his deep connection to the region and the club he supported as a child.

A Career Reinvigorated in Townsville

Clifford, a Tully Tigers junior, has accumulated 98 NRL appearances, with 73 of those in Cowboys colours across two distinct periods. After making his NRL debut in 2018 alongside club legend Johnathan Thurston, Clifford ventured to the Newcastle Knights for two seasons before a stint in the UK Super League with Hull FC in 2023. His return to North Queensland in 2024 saw him slot back into the halfback role, notably playing a key part in the Cowboys' Elimination Final victory over the Knights. This season, Clifford has featured in all nine games, contributing four tries and seven assists. His current form is being lauded by club management, with Cowboys Football Club CEO Micheal Luck noting Clifford's dedication. "Jake was challenged in the pre-season to win his spot, he did that and has gone on to play some of the best football of his career," Luck stated.

Praise for Elite Consistency and Partnership

Micheal Luck further elaborated on Clifford's impact, highlighting his consistent performance. "We have always known Jake’s best form is elite, his challenge has been doing it consistently and to his credit, he has done that this season," Luck said. "Jake has regularly been among our best players and has been an integral part of our strong start to 2026." The CEO also pointed to the burgeoning partnership between Clifford and fellow playmaker Tom Dearden. "The partnership between Jake and Tom Dearden in the halves has blossomed over the past 12 months and we believe they complement each other well." Clifford himself expressed his delight at extending his stay. "This decision was a no-brainer for my family and I. This is our home here and I’m really excited with what this playing group has been building this year," he commented. His sentiment reflects a deep personal investment in the club's trajectory.

Navigating Competition for Halves Spots

Clifford's re-signing effectively closes the door on potential approaches from other clubs, including the PNG Chiefs and Perth Bears, who were reportedly interested in securing him for their inaugural rosters. The 28-year-old's new deal ensures he remains a focal point for the Cowboys. His position in the halves was not without competition. Youngster Tom Duffy was also considered for a starting role, and Jaxon Purdue, initially in contention, has since been shifted to the centres. This indicates a strategic approach by coach Todd Payten to solidify the team's structure. Reports had also surfaced of the Cowboys meeting with Warriors pivot Chanel Harris-Tavita, who is off contract in 2027. However, Clifford's commitment makes such a move highly unlikely, reinforcing the club's faith in their current personnel.

A Foundation for Future Success

With Tom Dearden already tied down until the end of the 2029 season, the Clifford-Dearden combination is set to anchor the Cowboys' halves for the foreseeable future. This stability is crucial for building a consistent and successful team. Clifford's dedication extends beyond the field, with Luck noting his commitment to improvement. "He is one of the first players through the door every morning and spends as much time speaking to the coaches about how he can improve as any player in our squad," he said. The Cowboys are currently in strong form, aiming for their seventh victory in eight games when they face Parramatta on Friday night. This match also presents an opportunity for lock Jason Taumalolo to surpass Johnathan Thurston's record for most games played for the club, adding another layer of significance to the upcoming fixture.

The bottom line

• Jake Clifford has committed to the North Queensland Cowboys until the end of the 2028 NRL season through a new two-year contract extension.
• The playmaker's current form is considered career-best, marked by consistent performances and a strong contribution of tries and assists in 2026.
• The club views the halves partnership between Clifford and Tom Dearden as a key strength and a foundation for future success.
• Clifford's decision to re-sign was influenced by his deep connection to the club and the region he supported as a child.
• His extension signals the Cowboys' confidence in their current halves pairing, potentially ending speculation about external recruitment for the position.
• Clifford's commitment reflects his dedication to continuous improvement and his integral role in the team's strong start to the 2026 season.