Hull FC have tied up Liam Knight for the 2026 season at least, as per Hull Live’s exclusive on Monday. The prop forward is the seventh bit of retention done by the club this year, following on from new deals for Denive Balmforth, Harvey Barron, Lewis Martin, Davy Litten, Will Hutchinson, and Herman Ese’ese.
But what comes next? And which players are still out of contract? Here Hull Live takes a look.
Jack Ashworth
The enthusiastic prop is in the second season of his original two-year deal at the club. Missing just one game this term, he has made no secret of his desire to stay at Hull FC, with the front rower finding a home in East Yorkshire. Whether a new deal will be offered is still to come to light. As well as re-signing Knight, Hull have signed Wigan prop Harvie Hill for 2026, but they need depth in the prop position, and are currently assessing their options.
Tom Briscoe
The veteran winger, now 35, signed an 18-month contract at Hull last April and, like Ashworth, has voiced his desire to play on in 2026. He has played predominately in the centre this year, with the likes of Zak Hardaker forced to play back row due to injuries in the position. Again, no steer has been given on his future yet, with the player also playing a key and important role in the development of young wingers Harvey Barron and Lewis Martin.
Zach Jebson
The young forward is yet to make a first-team appearance this year. He has spent time on loan at Goole Vikings this season but has found himself back in Hull’s reserves in recent weeks. He’s played in both the centre and back row spots and impressed in the former position against Hull KR in the reserves derby last weekend.
Will Gardiner
The prop forward, 24, is currently playing on dual reg at Doncaster after a loan spell at Featherstone. He hasn’t played for Hull’s first team since round two.
Matty Laidlaw
The young middle, still only 21, has been given a shot in recent weeks and hasn’t let anyone down. He’s tenacious and fearless and gives everything every time he plays. Those facets could see his time at the club extended.
Jordan Lane
As exclusively reported by Hull Live back in March, Lane, the second longest-serving player at the club, has signed for Castleford for 2026 and beyond. He’s currently out injured after breaking his arm back in April.
Ligi Sao
The prop forward suffered a cruel season-ending knee injury back in February. Hull got dispensation on the quota to sign Knight, with Sao taken off as he focuses on his rehab. He’s making good progress, but a decision on whether he goes round again could be determined by how many spots the expected quota extension is extended by.
Cobie Wainhouse
The young prop shook off an ACL injury to return to full fitness this season. The teenager was good value for the reserves against Hull KR over the weekend and will be determined to put in further big performances and prove he warrants a new deal.
Liam Watts
The veteran middle joined Hull from Castleford on a deal until the end of the season. He’s expected to return from a calf injury at Salford this week – a welcome boost to the side. It’s possible he could make the move to part-time rugby league in the Championship next season, but as for an extension in Super League, as the game constantly reminds us, never say never.
Sam Eseh
The prop’s loan deal expires at the end of the season, but there’s no denying that Hull have been impressed with the 21-year-old this season, who is growing in both confidence and stature. He’s been good value but remains contracted at Wigan next year.