**Knight’s Star Reacts to Thompson Exit: Bradman Best Expresses Disappointment Over Departure**
Newcastle Knights’ rising star, Bradman Best, has expressed his disappointment after news broke that prop Leo Thompson will be leaving the club ahead of the 2026 NRL season. Thompson, who has been a key player for the Knights in recent seasons, confirmed his departure as part of a move to a new club, leaving behind a void that the team will now need to fill.
For Best, Thompson’s exit is a significant loss. The two players have shared the field as part of a dynamic team, and Best, who has been a standout in the backs for the Knights, spoke candidly about the impact Thompson has had on the side both on and off the field. “It’s definitely a big loss for us,” Best admitted. “Leo’s not just a great player but also a massive presence in the dressing room. He’s someone you look to for leadership, and he always leads by example. To see him go will be tough, but that’s the nature of the game.”
Leo Thompson’s decision to leave the Knights comes as part of a broader reshaping of the NRL roster, with clubs constantly looking to improve their squads through player movement. Although Thompson’s departure will mark the end of his time at Newcastle, his performances have left a lasting legacy. Known for his toughness and resilience, Thompson has played a pivotal role in the Knights’ forward pack, often providing the platform for their attacking plays. His rugged playing style and no-nonsense approach made him a fan favorite, and his leadership qualities were evident in his ability to inspire those around him.
Best reflected on the influence Thompson has had on his own career development. “Playing alongside him has taught me a lot about what it takes to compete at the highest level,” Best said. “Leo is a fierce competitor, and his professionalism is something that everyone in the team can learn from.”
The news of Thompson’s departure comes during a crucial period for the Knights, who are looking to build on their recent successes and push for further improvement in the coming seasons. The club’s management will now turn their attention to finding a replacement who can provide the same level of impact as Thompson, both in terms of skill and leadership.
While the news is undoubtedly disappointing for the Knights, Best believes that the team’s resilience will help them move forward. “It’s unfortunate that we’re losing Leo, but we’ve got a great squad here at the Knights,” Best said. “We’ll have to adapt and move on. The next challenge is to continue building as a team and ensuring we stay competitive.”
The club is already working behind the scenes to ensure that the gap left by Thompson’s exit is filled. With a focus on maintaining the balance between experienced leadership and emerging talent, the Knights will look to continue their upward trajectory in the NRL.
For Best, the focus remains on the future. “We’ve got a lot to look forward to,” he said. “Leo will always have a special place in the hearts of everyone at the club, and we’ll give him our best wishes. Now, it’s about continuing to grow as a team and making sure we remain one of the top sides in the competition.”
As Thompson prepares for his next chapter, the Knights will be left to rally around each other and prepare for the challenges ahead. Best’s sentiments reflect the collective determination of the team to overcome adversity and continue striving for success, with Thompson’s departure serving as a reminder of the transient nature of professional sport.
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