‘Has his best football in front of him’: Hudson Young sets massive goal after signing new deal with the Raiders

The Raiders have received a huge boost ahead of their finals showdown in Newcastle, with one of their best players signing a new long-term deal.

Hudson Young is staying in Canberra after he signed a long-term contract extension. Picture: Jeremy Ng/Getty Images

The Raiders have locked up one of the best back-rowers in the world, with Hudson Young signing a new deal to stay in Canberra until the end of the 2027 season.

It’s a timely boost for the Green Machine who head to Newcastle for Sunday’s elimination final against the hottest team in the NRL right now.

Young has been a beast for Canberra on the left edge, scoring 23 tries in his past two seasons and seemingly able to create something out of nothing in the big moments when his team needs a spark.

Hudson Young made his Origin debut this year and showed off his fiery side in the first two games. Picture: Chris Hyde/Getty Images

His stunning form had him in the mix for a World Cup berth last year, while he was rewarded with a State of Origin debut earlier in the season and played in the first two games.

The 25-year-old was already under contract for 2024, but his decision to re-sign means the Raiders don’t have to worry about rival clubs going after him if he’d hit the open market on November 1.

“This club means everything to me and my family and it’s been home for me since 2017 and I’m really excited to extend my stay,” he said.

“My partner and I are really settled here and I’m happy off the field and on the field, and I’m really excited about the squad we’re building.

Young has been an attacking weapon for Canberra with 23 tries in the past two seasons. Picture: Chris Hyde/Getty Images

“I feel like we’ve got really good juniors coming through. Our SG Ball team went really well and our NSW Cup team has had a great season as well and I want to be a part of their development.

“I feel like we’re building something really special and that’s something I want to be a part of.

“I’ve worked really close with Ricky and the coaches and the biggest goal is to win a premiership here at the Raiders.”

Keeping Young was essential for a club that will lose five-eighth Jack Wighton to the Rabbitohs next year, while fan favourite Jarrod Croker is hanging up the boots after more than 300 games in the green jersey.

“Hudson is a very talented player who we believe still has his best football in front of him,” Raiders chief executive Don Furner said.

“He represented NSW at Origin level this season and he is developing into a great leader both on and off the field.”

“We’re really excited to have him re-sign with the club and be part of our club for the next four seasons.”

Originally published as ‘Has his best football in front of him’: Hudson Young sets massive goal after signing new deal with the Raiders