By Jasper Bruce

Kaeo Weekes has signed a new two-year deal at Canberra as reward for his breakout NRL season.

Weekes now holds a contract through 2027 and looms as the Raiders’ likely fullback for round one next season following Jordan Rapana’s move to the Super League.

Weekes has played 17 games for Canberra since moving from Manly this season and received the coaches’ award at the club’s awards night last week.

A fullback coming through the grades, Weekes can also play in the halves in a pinch having helped the Raiders remain in the hunt for the 2024 finals by starting at halfback during Jamal Fogarty’s biceps injury.

Canberra ultimately finished ninth with a 50 per cent win-loss record, missing the finals on for-and-against.

Weekes recorded nine try assists and ran for an average of 121 metres this year.

“I want to thank the club for giving me the opportunity to come down to Canberra,” Weekes said.

“It was a big step to move down here away from my partner and family to chase my dream, but I’m so grateful I came.

“It’s been a really enjoyable first year for me, I love this club and what they’re building for the future and I’m looking forward to building on what I’ve started over the next few years.”

Regular first-graders Xavier Savage, Tom Starling, Simi Sasagi and Albert Hopoate are without deals beyond 2025 so can negotiate with rivals for 2026 from November.