Naufahu Whyte has opted against testing the open market at the end of this season, signing a three-year contract extension with the Sydney Roosters.
The 23-year-old has emerged as the leader of the forward pack at Bondi this year and has filled the shoes left by three-time premiership winner, Jared Waerea-Hagreaves.
Whyte was initially set to come off-contract at the end of 2026 and would have been a prime target for the Perth Bears, but club officials moved quickly to ensure that wasn’t the case and the New Zealand international would remain in the red, white and blue.
In his 12 appearances this season, Whyte has averaged 151 running metres and 29 tackles per game, while also breaking 34 tackles for the Tricolours.
While the interest undoubtedly would have been there come November 1, the towering prop admitted there was no other team he’d rather play for each week.
“The Roosters have been my home since I moved over from Auckland as a teenager,” he said in a statement on Tuesday.
“It’s a blessing to be part of this club and an honour every time I pull on the jersey.
“I’m grateful that this is where I will continue to grow my game and I’m excited to keep learning from Trent [Robinson], working hard alongside my brothers, and building something special together.”
With three caps to his name already with the Kiwis and the 50-game NRL mark rapidly approaching, it’s easy to see why the Roosters wanted to secure Whyte’s future.
Trent Robinson credited the young prop for his work ethic on and off the field.
“Fahu is a competitor with a deep hunger to improve and he has worked incredibly hard to earn his standing in our squad,” the coach said.
“He’s a player you love coaching because he gives everything to the team
“He’s also a genuinely good person, so it’s great to have him locked in as part of our long-term plans.”
Whyte’s new contract sees him signed until the end of 2029 alongside incoming recruit Reece Robson, who will join the foundation club next season.
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