Cowboys’ big man to stick around
MCLEAN SIGNS ON UNTIL END OF 2023
THE Cowboys have staved off interest from NRL rivals to secure former Australian prop Jordan McLean to a new deal.
McLean has ended months of speculation over his future by inking a 12-month extension to remain at the Cowboys until the end of 2023.
The 31-year-old was linked with his former club Melbourne, who are searching for experienced forwards following the loss of Jesse and Kenny Bromwich and Felise Kaufusi to the Dolphins, but McLean is staying in Townsville.
The hulking front-rower played a key role in the Cowboys’ revival season, chalking up 22 appearances in the engine room to spearhead North Queensland’s stunning charge to the preliminary final.
A long-term member of the Cowboys’ leadership group, McLean’s contract extension will see him return for his sixth season in North Queensland.
“Securing Jordan for another season is exciting news for our club,” Cowboys football boss Micheal Luck said.
“It’s no coincidence our improved performances last season coincided with Jordan’s most consistent period on and off the field.
“His experience and leadership has been invaluable in the development of our talented young playing group and we look forward to his continued influence helping lead our squad to another level of performance in 2023.”
After battling injury in two of his first three seasons at the club, McLean has appeared in 46 of a possible 50 games for the Cowboys over the past two seasons.
His excellent run of form saw McLean recalled to the representative arena for NSW this season.
However a training injury robbed the 179-game NRL veteran of a fairytale Origin debut for the Blues in the Suncorp decider.
His experience and leadership has been invaluable MICHEAL LUCK