As New England prepares for another season at Fort Quincy, the 2026 roster continues to take shape with a wave of impactful new signings across the forwards and backs. This group blends international pedigree, American pathway standouts, crossover athletes, and rising prospects from top development systems in New Zealand, Australia, and Europe.

What ties them together? Versatility, hunger, physicality—and a shared belief in the Free Jacks’ identity-driven culture. Below is the next chapter of the club’s 2026 roster announcements, highlighting the newest additions set to make their mark in Quincy.

---

Jerad “Line” Latu — Versatile Back Brings Power and Experience

The Free Jacks are thrilled to welcome Jerad “Line” Latu for the 2026 MLR season. The 28-year-old San Mateo native arrives from Anthem Rugby Carolina, reuniting with former teammate Mitch Wilson and bringing valuable continuity to New England’s backline.

“I am extremely excited to join such a storied franchise for the 2026 season. I’m looking forward to getting to work and putting my best foot forward for the organization.”

Originally a college football wide receiver at the College of San Mateo and Eastern Michigan University, Latu transitioned to rugby in 2022 with the American Raptors. That same year, he represented the USA Falcons and earned attention across the Americas. In 2023 he broke out, earning Super Rugby Americas First Team honors at fullback and selection to the USA Eagles greater squad.

He later featured for Houston in 2023 before delivering strong 2024 and 2025 seasons, highlighted by 53 carries for 477 meters, 6 line breaks, 25 tackle breaks, plus 73 passes and 25 kicks for 710 meters. Comfortable at fullback, wing, or flyhalf, Latu brings explosiveness and all-round versatility.

---

Maliu Niuafe — A Rising USA Prop with International Experience

The Free Jacks are excited to welcome Maliu Niuafe, one of the fastest-rising tighthead props in American rugby. At just 22, Niuafe made his USA Eagles test debut during the 2025 Pacific Nations Cup, helped secure qualification for RWC 2027, and earned three Autumn Test caps.

“I believe signing with the Free Jacks will help me further develop my knowledge and skills as a young tighthead prop. I’m willing to give it my all.”

Born in California and raised in Auckland, he was previously in consideration for the New Zealand U20s and spent time as a development player with Auckland in the NPC. In 2025 with RFC Los Angeles, he appeared in 15 matches (12 starts), carrying 73 times for 402 meters, breaking 9 tackles, and making 75 tackles.

A powerful scrummager with high work rate, Niuafe is a long-term building block for both the Free Jacks and USA Rugby.

---

Braemar Murray — Young Lock with European Pedigree

Twenty-one-year-old English–American lock Braemar Murray joins New England after stints with Anthem Rugby Carolina and the Miami Sharks. At 6’5” and 240 lbs, Murray enters his third MLR season with maturity beyond his years.

“It’s a massive opportunity to be part of such a successful club with a strong identity and culture.”

Born in England to an American mother, Murray developed through elite academies including Newcastle Falcons and Stade Toulousain, and represented the USA U18s and U20s before debuting in MLR in 2024. He has made 15 MLR appearances and recently impressed for Old Blue in the American Rugby Premiership, emerging as one of the league’s standout performers.

Murray adds mobility, length, and upside to the Free Jacks’ lock stocks.

---

Jacob Norris — Māori All Black and Super Rugby Veteran Joins the Pack

The Free Jacks are thrilled to announce the signing of Jacob Norris, a seasoned loose forward with experience across Super Rugby, the NPC, and the Māori All Blacks.

“It’s a massive honour and privilege to be part of such a great organisation with a proud history of success.”

At 6’3” and 220 lbs, Norris brings eight seasons of NPC experience, stints with the Crusaders, Western Force, Chiefs wider squad, and a standout 2024 campaign with Moana Pasifika. He debuted for the Māori All Blacks in 2021 alongside his brother Ollie.

Originally from Tauranga, Norris came through Waikato and Chiefs pathways before winning back-to-back NPC titles with Tasman. He later returned home to Bay of Plenty, playing under incoming Free Jacks forwards coach Pingi Tala’apitaga and alongside captain Joe Johnston.

Norris provides leadership, toughness, and aerial quality—an instant impact signing.

---

Sione Tupou — A Dynamic New Zealand Hooker on the Rise

Up-and-coming New Zealand hooker Sione Tupou joins the Free Jacks ahead of the 2026 season. Standing 5’10” and 108 kg, the 21-year-old is known for his powerful carrying, aggressive contact, and explosive athleticism.

“I’m super excited to be a part of this team and can’t wait to get stuck in!”

Raised in South Auckland and developed through De La Salle College, Tupou advanced into the Bay of Plenty academy and earned selection to the Chiefs U20 squad in 2024. He has also competed with the Chiefs development team and spent the past two NPC seasons under Pingi Tala’apitaga.

Viewed as one of New Zealand’s most promising young front-rowers, Tupou brings big upside to the Free Jacks pack.

---

Filipe Vakasiuola — A Powerful Tongan/Kiwi Tighthead with NPC Credentials

The Free Jacks are excited to welcome Filipe Vakasiuola, a 23-year-old Tongan/New Zealand tighthead prop with rare size and athleticism. Standing 6’3” and 295 lbs, he is poised to make a significant impact in MLR.

“I am ultra stoked to play for this championship franchise! In a place where legends like Bobby Orr, Tom Brady, and Joe Johnston have left their mark, you know you’re in the right place!”

A Katikati native and member of Tauranga Sports—the same club once led by Mike Rogers—Vakasiuola has quickly risen through Bay of Plenty’s NPC ranks, featuring in 18 matches over two seasons. He earned Steamers Rookie of the Year honors in 2024 and is known for his power, mobility, and game intelligence.

Maintaining continuity with Bay of Plenty coach Tala’apitaga, Vakasiuola enters New England with momentum and pedigree.

---

Alex Mackenzie — US/Japan-Qualified Back Row Returns Stateside

The Free Jacks are excited to welcome Alex Mackenzie, an American- and Japanese-qualified back rower joining New England after five successful seasons in Japan’s Top League.

“It’s evident that the Free Jacks have a strong rugby culture and environment. I’ll embrace and embody it to the best of my ability to give back to the team.”

Born in Japan and raised in Seattle, Mackenzie starred at Central Washington University, earning Collegiate All-American honors in both 15s and 7s and becoming a Rudy Scholz Award finalist. He turned professional in 2021, competing for the Shining Arcs and later the D-Rocks, sharpening his ball-carrying and defensive presence against top international talent.

At 6’1” and 240 lbs, Mackenzie brings athleticism, leadership, and high-level experience to the New England back row.

---

Ollie Aylmer — U.S.-Born Australian U20 Lock with Big Upside

The Free Jacks are excited to welcome Ollie Aylmer, a New York–born 20-year-old lock who has risen rapidly through the Brumbies development pathway. Standing 6’5” and 247 lbs, Aylmer enters New England as one of the most promising young locks in the global U20 landscape.

“I am very grateful for this opportunity with the Free Jacks and excited to get going in March!”

Aylmer developed in Sydney through St Pius X College, Roseville Juniors, and Gordon Rugby before helping the Brumbies U19s win the Australian Super Rugby development championship. After earning selection to the Australia U20 squad, he earned six caps between the U20 Rugby Championship and World Rugby U20 Championship.

Recently part of the Brumbies’ 2025 Super Rugby squad training block, Aylmer arrives in Boston with size, mobility, and enormous growth potential.

Stay up to date with our latest signings and all Free Jacks news by subscribing to our new and improved weekly news letter!

For more opportunities to engage with the Free Jacks community, stay updated on future Free Jacks matches, festivals, and announcements through the Free Jacks’ news page: www.freejacks.com/news