TOWNSVILLE, 01 March 2026 – The North Queensland Cowboys have officially ushered in a new era at hooker, with high-profile recruit Reed Mahoney confirmed to start in the club’s season opener in Las Vegas. After a “spiteful” departure from the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs at the end of 2025, Mahoney’s move to Townsville has become one of the most discussed transitions of the 2026 NRL season.
Vegas Debut and Bulldogs Departure
Mahoney arrived in North Queensland during the off-season to fill the void left by Reece Robson. His exit from Belmore was reportedly “ugly,” with the player recently opening up about his reputation as an NRL “mongrel” and the circumstances surrounding his move. Despite the friction of his departure, Mahoney’s impact on his new club has been immediate; experts suggest his leadership and defensive work rate will provide the Cowboys with a different tactical edge in 2026.
The hooker is set to play a full 80-minute role, a move that has already sparked significant interest in NRL Fantasy and SuperCoach circles. Analysts believe his presence will be vital for a Cowboys side looking to capitalise on their 2025 momentum.
2026 Season Outlook
As the NRL kicks off its season in Las Vegas today, the spotlight remains on how Mahoney integrates with the Cowboys’ spine. While he may not be the primary contender for individual accolades like the Dally M, his “buy of the year” potential lies in his ability to direct the forward pack and provide clean service to the halves.
| Category | Details (2025-2026 Transition) |
|---|---|
| Current Club | North Queensland Cowboys |
| Former Club | Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs |
| Position | Hooker |
| 2026 Round 1 Status | Confirmed Starter (Las Vegas) |
| Role Expectation | 80-minute hooker |
Public and Expert Insights
Public opinion on the move remains divided. While Bulldogs fans have expressed mixed emotions regarding his exit, Cowboys supporters are optimistic. Recent insights from social media and sports forums highlight that Mahoney’s “mongrel” playing style is exactly what the North Queensland middle third has lacked in recent seasons. Some experts predict he could even outperform his predecessor, Robson, due to his superior tactical kicking and deceptive dummy-half runs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Reed Mahoney leave the Bulldogs?
While specific contract details remain private, Mahoney has described his departure as “ugly,” suggesting a breakdown in relations or a shift in the club’s long-term roster strategy following their third-place finish in 2025.
Who is replacing Reed Mahoney at the Bulldogs?
For the 2026 season, the Bulldogs have moved to fill the hooker position with Soni Luke, who joined the club from the Penrith Panthers.
Is Reed Mahoney playing in the NRL Las Vegas round?
Yes. Mahoney has been named in the starting line-up for the North Queensland Cowboys for the Round 1 double-header in Las Vegas, taking place today, 01 March 2026.
What are Mahoney’s prospects for State of Origin in 2026?
After staking a strong claim for the Queensland Maroons in mid-2025 following a series of stunning performances for Canterbury, Mahoney remains a top contender for the hooker rotation in the 2026 Origin series, depending on his early-season form with the Cowboys.