Dylan Brown (born 21 June 2000) is a New Zealand professional rugby league player known for his versatility as a five-eighth, halfback, and centre. He currently plays for the Newcastle Knights in the NRL and represents New Zealand at the international level. Born in Auckland and raised in Whangarei, Brown has Samoan and Niuean heritage, which has shaped both his identity and his approach to the sport.
From a young age, Brown showed exceptional talent in rugby league. He played his junior football for the Hikurangi Stags before moving to Sydney, Australia at age 15 to pursue his dream of playing professionally with the Parramatta Eels. There, he attended The Hills Sports High School, a breeding ground for future NRL stars, and quickly made a name for himself in junior competitions.
By 2017, Brown had led Parramatta’s S.G. Ball squad to a grand final victory and debuted for the club’s under-20s Holden Cup team at just 17. That same year, he was selected for the Australian Schoolboys squad but withdrew due to injury, signaling both his rising profile and the challenges of transitioning to elite sport.
Quick Facts of Dylan Brown
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Dylan Brown |
| Date of Birth | 21 June 2000 |
| Age | 25 |
| Place of Birth | Auckland, New Zealand |
| Nationality | New Zealander |
| Height | 183 cm (6 ft 0 in) |
| Weight | 85 kg (13 st 5 lb) |
| Position | Five-eighth, Halfback, Centre |
| Current Club | Newcastle Knights (from 2026) |
| Previous Club | Parramatta Eels (2019–2025) |
| Representative Team | New Zealand (2022–present) |
| Professional Games | 142 (as of 2025) |
| Tries | 36 |
| Points | 146 |
| Net Worth | Not publicly listed; future contract estimated $13 million |
| Notable Achievements | NRL debut 2019, major finals appearances, top international representative |
Early Career and Rise
Brown’s junior success quickly transitioned into professional opportunities. In 2018, he trained with Parramatta’s first-grade squad while playing in the Jersey Flegg Cup and Wentworthville Magpies in the NSW Cup. His impressive performances led to promotion to Parramatta’s first-grade NRL squad for the 2019 season.
He made his NRL debut on 17 March 2019 against the Penrith Panthers in a 20–12 win and scored his first try a week later against Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs. Despite a mid-season injury, Brown returned strongly, finishing his debut season with standout performances, including a two-try effort in Parramatta’s record 58–0 elimination final victory over Brisbane.
NRL Career Highlights
Over the next few seasons, Brown cemented himself as one of the Eels’ key players:
- 2020: Suffered an ankle injury requiring surgery, missing part of the season.
- 2021: Faced a three-week suspension for a dangerous on-field tackle but returned to play 21 games, including finals.
- 2022: Played every game, scored 11 tries, and debuted for New Zealand internationally. Competed in the 2022 NRL Grand Final loss to Penrith.
- 2023: Served a seven-match suspension related to off-field legal issues, returning later in the season.
- 2024: Played his 100th NRL game, finishing the season with 24 appearances and five tries.
- 2025: Scored a try for New Zealand in the Pacific Championships win over Samoa and signed a 10-year deal with Newcastle Knights worth approximately $13 million, the richest contract in NRL history, starting in 2026.
International Career
Brown debuted for New Zealand in 2022 and has since represented his country in multiple matches, showcasing versatility and playmaking skill. He continues to be a key figure for the Kiwis, contributing both in attack and defense.
Controversies
In June 2023, Brown was charged with sexually touching a woman without consent. He pleaded guilty to two counts and was sentenced to an 18-month Community Corrections Order. The NRL subsequently handed him a seven-match suspension and a fine of $40,000, half of which was suspended. Brown has since returned to play, focusing on his career and professional development.
Personal Life and Contract
Brown’s 10-year contract with the Newcastle Knights, starting in 2026, is estimated at $13 million, securing his financial future and setting a record in the NRL. While his net worth is not officially public, the contract highlights his value and long-term impact in rugby league.
