NRL contract news: Nathan Brown officially joins Manly Sea Eagles on train-and-trial deal

Perfect signing: Manly cut ties with a player for 5years and……

Nathan Brown has officially joined his third club in as many years, signing a train-and-trial contract with Manly for the 2024 NRL season.

The former NSW Origin enforcer has struggled for consistent game-time in recent years, falling out of favour at Parramatta and enjoying a mixed stint during his short stay with the Roosters.

Brown will bring close to 150 games of first grade experience to the Sea Eagles, who missed the finals in their first season under the guidance of head coach Anthony Seibold, adding depth to their front-row stocks.

The 30-year-old joins the likes of Aaron Woods, Jake Trbojevic and Josh Aloiai as experienced forwards at the club.

Nathan Brown officially joins Manly Sea Eagles
In a statement released on Friday morning, Seibold claimed the recruitment was an important one for the club after recognising the potential lack of punch through the middle of the field.

“One thing Nathan adds is extra depth to our middle forwards group,” he said.

“We’ve had some really good competition for spots there, so to have another player who can bring experience and talent to our group is really important.

“The other thing is ‘Browny’ has come here for the right reasons. He feels as though he has got a bit of a point to prove. We now give him that opportunity.

“Like every player here, there are no guarantees but I just know he will compete hard for a spot. It can only help improve us a group.”

Brown will be unable to play in the opening rounds of next season unless the Sea Eagles opt to upgrade his contract to their top 30 roster prior to Round 1.

Nathan Brown NRL career record
Years Club Games
2013 Wests Tigers 1
2015-2016 South Sydney Rabbitohs 28
2017-2022 Parramatta Eels 109
2023 Sydney Roosters 10