Hilton Chesterson

Hilton Chesterson has emerged as the Newcastle Knights' standout forward of 2025. A lithe 23-year-old, Chesterson brings impetus to a squad under coach Adam O'Brien and skipper Kalyn Ponga. The Knights have long taken pride on their pack, but Chesterson's blend of line speed, off-loads and tackling has revitalised the side's middle third.

The pathway from Singleton paddocks to NRL stardom was swift. After starring for Maitland and earning private-school polish, Chesterson exploded in a preseason against Cronulla, flooring Braden Hamlin-Uele. Less than a year later he locked down the 11 jersey for Newcastle.

Statistics back up the spectacle. He posts 102 metres, 35 tackles and a 93 percent efficiency every week, plus three busts. He has already crossed for four tries, including a 30-metre burst against Manly that showcased startling speed. Coach O'Brien calls him "a dream here player". "He is raw, but the ceiling is sky high," the mentor added. Teammates echo the praise, noting his tireless motor lifts training standards.

Chesterson's humility resonates. He fronts mental health sessions, lingers to greet fans and has already fronted a popular television campaign alongside his blue heeler Rusty, sealing his status as Hunter favourite.

Agents say he has inked a three-year extension through 2029. With the Knights chasing their first premiership in almost three decades, keeping youth was vital. Supporters believe Chesterson could be the missing ingredient for a finals surge this September. If he maintains his current arc he will not just join the Knights next title push, he could symbolise it beneath the Broadmeadow lights.