IT IS OVER: Newcastle Knights Scrum half Jaelen Feeney has Terminated his contract with Newcastle Knights just because…. See more

The Newcastle Knights have confirmed that scrum-half Jaelen Feeney has terminated his contract with the club, marking an unexpected end to his time in the NRL side and prompting widespread discussion among supporters and league observers.

The club released a brief statement on Monday acknowledging Feeney’s departure, confirming that the contract termination was reached by mutual agreement following internal discussions. While the Knights did not disclose detailed reasons behind the decision, club officials stressed that the move was not connected to disciplinary breaches or off-field misconduct.

“After constructive conversations, both Jaelen and the club agreed that terminating the contract was the most appropriate outcome,” the statement read. “Jaelen has conducted himself professionally throughout his time with the Knights, and we wish him the best in the next stage of his career.”

Feeney, a talented and versatile playmaker, joined the Knights with strong expectations as a long-term option in the spine. Known for his pace, ball-playing ability, and attacking instincts, he was viewed as a player capable of growing into a regular first-grade role. However, his time at the club was limited by competition for selection, tactical changes, and injuries that disrupted continuity.

Sources close to the situation suggest that Feeney had become increasingly frustrated by a lack of consistent opportunities at NRL level. With the Knights reshaping their squad and prioritizing different combinations in the halves, discussions reportedly began around his long-term role within the club. Ultimately, both sides agreed that a clean break would allow the player to seek regular football elsewhere.

Speaking indirectly about the decision, Knights head coach Adam O’Brien emphasized the importance of transparency and respect when managing player careers. “Sometimes the timing just isn’t right,” O’Brien said. “It’s our responsibility to be honest with players about where they fit, and to support them when they want to pursue new opportunities.”

The announcement has drawn mixed reactions from Knights supporters. While some expressed disappointment at seeing a promising talent depart, others acknowledged the realities of roster management in the modern NRL, where competition for key positions is intense and development pathways are constantly evolving.

Rugby league analysts have also noted that mutual contract terminations are becoming more common across the competition. “It’s not always about failure,” one commentator explained. “Often it’s about fit, opportunity, and timing. Letting a player move on can be beneficial for both the individual and the club.”

For the Knights, Feeney’s exit opens up further flexibility within the squad as they continue to plan for upcoming fixtures and future recruitment. Club officials indicated they are confident in their current depth and development systems, with younger players ready to step up if required.

As for Feeney, his immediate future remains open, but his age, skill set, and versatility are likely to attract interest from other NRL clubs or opportunities overseas. Many within the game believe a change of environment could help unlock his full potential.

While the separation marks the end of Feeney’s journey with the Knights, both parties appear determined to move forward respectfully, closing this chapter while keeping an eye firmly on the future.