Cowboys bring home former club rookie of the year Jake Clifford

North Queensland has confirmed the NRL homecoming of a former club rookie of the year after hitting top form in the United Kingdom.

Jake Clifford is returning to the Cowboys. Picture: Getty Images.

North Queensland has confirmed the NRL homecoming of former club rookie of the year Jake Clifford for 2024.

Once regarded as the heir apparent to Johnathan Thurston, the 25-year-old halfback will return to his local club after three years away to back-up first choice halves Chad Townsend and Tom Dearden and mentor emerging No.7 Tom Duffy.

Clifford joined Newcastle on a mid-season transfer in 2021 after 42 games for the Cowboys, before experiencing the Super League with Hull KR in 2023.

The Tully, North Queensland native had been linked to both Ricky Stuart’s Raiders and Tim Sheens’ Tigers as recently as July after finding form in the UK.

“With Ben Hampton leaving our squad in 2024 we were searching for a half with NRL experience who could back-up Chad Townsend and Tom Dearden as well as help to mentor Tom Duffy,” Cowboys general manager of football Micheal Luck said.

“It came to our attention Jake potentially had an interest in coming back to the NRL.

“We had some discussions with Jake and his agent and we were thrilled to be able to come to terms in quick time.

“He was playing some of the best football of his career under Todd before he left in 2021 and we’re excited about what he can bring to our squad in terms of experience and competition for spots.

“We also know he is a great cultural fit and it’s always a bonus to be able to bring a North Queensland boy home.”

Originally published as Cowboys bring home former club rookie of the year Jake Clifford