Veteran Manly prop Nathan Brown outlines NRL exit plan

Manly prop Nathan Brown has revealed he decided at the start of the season that 2026 would be his final season in the NRL, simplifying his approach for the year. The veteran forward, who has played 14 seasons in the league, will conclude his tenure with the Sea Eagles this year as they undergo a forward pack reshuffle. Brown's last month at Manly will be crucial, as he returned to the starting lineup against the Dolphins following a two-year absence, due to the Sea Eagles' shortage of forwards.

Brown, now 33, hopes to conclude his NRL career in a finals series, with Manly needing to secure victories in their final four games to return to the top eight. The forward, who debuted in 2013, expressed that the time had come for him to move on from the league, citing the need to commit fully to his last season rather than lingering in uncertainty.

Brown's career has seen a progression from Wests Tigers, South Sydney, and Parramatta to his current club, where he played a prominent role in two State of Origins matches and the 2022 grand final for the Eels before joining Manly in 2024. Reflecting on his early years in the NRL, Brown shared that he appeared larger and less fit compared to his current self. Despite his evolving physique and mindset, he remains grateful for the challenges he faced along the way.

Manly's retirement also involves fellow veteran Siua Taukeiaho, who will be off contract after breaking his leg in May. The club has signed props Davvy Moale and Toni Mataele, alongside the promising second-rower Kayliss Fatialofa and teenage prop Simi Laiafi. Brown acknowledged his impact off the bench this season, still displaying the same energy as before.

He expressed no intention of lingering on the sidelines, stating, "I feel like I can probably still physically play another year in the NRL, but mentally, I'm ready to move on." Manly will be without prop Taniela Paseka for at least two weeks due to a knee injury, while Ethan Bullemor and Kobe Hetherington remain sidelined with injuries.