Knights forward firms to move on after 2025 NRL season

Newcastle Knights forward, David Firm, has made the decision to move on from the NRL club after the 2025 season, marking the end of his time with the Knights and signaling the beginning of a new chapter in his rugby league career. Firm’s departure comes after several seasons of strong performances, where he played an integral role in the club’s forward pack and became a key figure in the team’s efforts to challenge for higher honors in the NRL.

Early Career and Rise to Prominence

David Firm’s journey to the NRL was not a typical one, as he began his career in the lower grades before breaking into the elite competition. Originally from the region of Newcastle, Firm grew up playing rugby league, showing promise from a young age. After coming through the junior ranks, he made his debut for the Knights, quickly earning a spot in the team’s forward rotation due to his work ethic, tough playing style, and ability to make an impact on both sides of the ball.

Firm’s early years at the Knights were marked by hard work and determination, as he honed his skills and proved his worth to the coaching staff. Known for his strong running game and rugged defense, Firm’s ability to gain meters for his team and provide a reliable presence in the middle of the field quickly earned him the respect of his teammates and coaches. His no-nonsense approach to the game, combined with a strong physical presence, made him a fan favorite and one of the more consistent performers in the Knights’ forward pack.

Peak Years with the Knights

Firm reached his peak form with the Newcastle Knights in the latter part of the 2020s, becoming one of the team’s most important players. His performances in both the forward and defensive lines played a crucial role in helping the Knights push toward finals contention. Firm’s ability to generate momentum in the middle of the field with powerful runs and his tendency to get through a mountain of work made him a central figure in the team’s structure.

While Firm was never one to steal the spotlight with flashy plays, his quiet consistency was one of his strongest attributes. The Knights, with their mix of youth and experience, relied heavily on Firm’s leadership and physicality to set the tone for their forwards. He was often called upon to take on the tough carries, wear down opposition defenses, and lead by example, making his contributions even more valuable to the Knights’ success during these years.

Throughout his tenure with the Knights, Firm was regularly praised for his work ethic, commitment to the team, and his passion for the game. His longevity with the club, alongside his consistent performances, solidified his place as one of the team’s leaders in the pack.

The Decision to Move On

The decision for David Firm to move on from the Knights after the 2025 NRL season is not a reflection of any tension with the club or any dissatisfaction with his role but rather a personal decision to explore new opportunities. After years of service to the Knights, Firm has decided that it’s time to seek a new challenge, whether that be playing elsewhere in the NRL, moving overseas, or potentially transitioning into a coaching or administrative role within rugby league.

Firm’s departure is likely tied to a combination of factors, including a desire for fresh challenges and an opportunity to contribute to a new team. As players reach the later stages of their careers, many begin to look for new experiences, and Firm’s decision to move on is indicative of a player who feels he has achieved what he set out to do with the Knights.

Looking Ahead to the 2025 Season

While Firm’s departure is set for 2025, he remains fully committed to the Knights for the remainder of his contract. The 2025 NRL season will be a pivotal one for Firm as he looks to give his all to the club during his final seasons with them. Knights fans can expect Firm to continue performing at a high level, providing valuable leadership on and off the field while also passing on his experience to the younger players coming through the ranks.

Firm’s decision to move on also opens the door for the Knights to build for the future. The club will likely look to bring in new players to complement their existing squad, and the leadership void left by Firm’s departure will need to be filled. The 2025 season could serve as a transition period, where the team looks to strengthen their depth in the forwards while also continuing to develop their younger players to step into larger roles.

Legacy at the Knights

David Firm’s legacy at the Newcastle Knights is one of reliability, toughness, and leadership. While he may not have been one of the flashiest players in the competition, his consistent and professional approach to the game made him a central figure in the club’s forward pack. His departure after the 2025 season will be a bittersweet moment for the Knights and their fans, as they say goodbye to one of the club’s stalwarts of the past decade.

Firm’s influence on the club, both as a player and a leader, will leave a lasting mark, and his contribution to the team’s development will be remembered for years to come. As his career with the Knights winds down, Firm will undoubtedly look back on his time with the club with pride, knowing that he gave everything for the team and helped them navigate one of the most challenging eras in their history.