There was conjecture over his departure, but it has now been confirmed – with the Canberra Raiders confirming that they have signed Newcastle Knights back-rower Joel Edwards, on a 3-year deal.
With some conflicting reports on the nature in which he is leaving the club, the Cessnock Goannas Junior has played in 45 games for the Knights, since making his debut in season 2010.
The Raiders club is excited at the acquisition of Edwards, and believes he can contribute a lot to the Raiders team in 2013.
“Joel has been fantastic for the Knights this season and we’re looking forward to him joining us next year and for the two seasons after that,†Furner said.
“He’s a young player on the rise and at age 24 he’s just starting to work into his NRL career and we’re looking forward to him continuing his progress with the Raiders.
“In the meantime, we wish him well for the rest of this season with the Knights.â€
For the Knights, despite offering Edwards a 2-year deal, one that he rejected, with the plan for the Knights shifting back to utilising local and promising juniors.
“It is disappointing that Joel has decided to progress his career in Canberra,†CEO Matt Gidley said.
“Our focus will return to our strategy of developing local players to ensure the current high percentage of local talent in our NRL team remains.â€