The Wests Tigers are making headlines in the free agency market with their latest acquisition, powerhouse outside back Jeral Skelton, who will join the club for the 2025 season. This move comes as Skelton, who has struggled to secure a regular spot with the Canterbury Bulldogs, is set to transition to a new opportunity.
Skelton, originally from Redcliffe and a former Australian Rugby Sevens player, made his shift to rugby league at the end of 2022. He signed a two-year contract with the Bulldogs, but despite his impressive performance in reserve grade, he has had limited opportunities in the top tier. With only six first-grade appearances to his name, including three tries—two of which came this season—the Bulldogs have decided not to renew his contract. Skelton has found himself overshadowed by other outside backs at Canterbury, such as the promising Blake Wilson, who has been a key backup this year alongside established players like Jacob Kiraz and Josh Addo-Carr. Addo-Carr has even expressed his desire to extend his stay at Belmore beyond 2025.
According to the Sydney Morning Herald, Skelton’s departure from the Bulldogs has opened the door for the Wests Tigers to secure his services. The Tigers have signed Skelton to a two-year deal, ensuring his presence at the club for the 2025 and 2026 seasons. This move comes as the Tigers are rapidly filling their roster spots for 2025, with notable additions including Jarome Luai and Sunia Turuva from the Penrith Panthers on long-term contracts.
The Tigers have faced challenges in solidifying their backline this season, exacerbated by Junior Tupou’s injury. With Tupou heading to the Dolphins next year, the team’s outside back positions remain uncertain. Other players such as Alex Lobb, Brent Naden, Charlie Staines, Justin Olam, Solomon Alaimalo, Solomona Faataape, and Starford To’a have yet to secure firm spots in the lineup.
Despite having a number of promising young players emerging from their own development system, Skelton’s addition could provide a significant boost. His impressive record of 10 tries in 13 reserve grade games this season, coupled with his remarkable average of 208 metres per game, makes him a strong candidate for a starting role. Skelton’s physicality and strength are qualities the Tigers have been lacking, particularly in their first season under coach Benji Marshall, which is likely to end in a wooden spoon—the third consecutive one for the club.
With several key players like Isaiah Papali’i and Stefano Utoikamanu set to depart at the end of the season, the Tigers have the financial flexibility to make such strategic signings. Skelton’s addition is expected to strengthen their squad as they prepare for the upcoming seasons.
