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Roosters' gun rookie confirms Cowboys move in 2026
Sam Kosack • August 20th, 2025 9:46 pm
The North Queensland Cowboys have bolstered their outside backs depth with Roosters’ rookie Ethan King joining the club in 2026.
Originally from North Queensland, the young 22-year-old was rewarded for his strong NSW Cup form with a debut in Round 18, 2024, and has made two appearances for the Roosters in first grade this season.
King, the son of Andrew King and nephew of Blues assistant coach Matt King, is joining the Cowboys in hopes of securing more time in the top flight, and is equally comfortable at fullback, wing, or centre.
Speaking on SEN 1170 Sportsday, King confirmed his move up North.
“I’m very excited (about the move), King said.
“It looks like a great club looking in and I'm really keen to get up there and put my best foot forward and try to crack that side.
“They probably haven't had the best year this year, but they've got a really great squad there and they play a great style of footy.
“I’m really looking forward to getting up there.
“I really feel like my best position is fullback. I feel like I can have a good impact on the game when I’m playing fullback.
“But at the same time, if I'm playing NRL, I'm not complaining at all.
“I just love playing footy, and if you want to put me on the wing or in the centres, I'm happy either way.
“Playing NRL’s really all I’m focused on.”
The young outside back looms as a potential replacement for Fijian international Semi Valemei, who has been linked with a move to the Castleford Tigers in the Super League.
King has been named at 18th man for the Roosters in their clash against the Eels on Saturday.
