As Major League Rugby enters a new era in 2026, the New England Free Jacks continue to shape a roster built on continuity, competitiveness, and character. This year’s returning standouts and exciting new arrivals represent the next wave of leaders and playmakers ready to carry the club forward. 

Harrison Boyle — Boston-Born Playmaker Returns for Season Four

The Free Jacks are excited to announce the return of Boston-born flyhalf/fullback Harrison Boyle for the 2026 MLR season. Standing 6’4” and 215 lbs, Boyle brings a rangy, physical presence to the backline and enters his fourth season in New England following a strong 2025 campaign that showcased significant growth.

“I am honored to return to the Free Jacks in 2026 to build on the club’s history in a developing and new-look competition. I can’t wait to run back out in front of the best fans in the league at Fort Quincy.”

Raised in Wellington, Boyle captained St. Patrick’s College Silverstream to a Wellington Schools championship and progressed through the Wellington, Hurricanes, and Otago pathways before joining the Free Jacks. Across 41 appearances—24 starts—he has proven to be a versatile and composed leader.

In 2025, Boyle contributed 12 offloads, 127 passes, and 1,616 kicking meters, stepping into the lineup as emergency flyhalf cover and becoming a key figure in the championship run.

Oscar Lennon — Two-Time Champion Scrumhalf Back for More

Two-time MLR champion Oscar Lennon has signed on for his third season in New England. The US-qualified scrumhalf arrived late in 2024 and has since played a major role in securing back-to-back titles in 2024 and 2025.

“I cannot wait to get back with the boys in what is the best team culture and environment I’ve experienced at the Free Jacks!”

Born and raised in Wales, Lennon developed through RGC 1404, Hartpury University, and the Bristol Bears—where he made his Premiership debut in 2022. Since joining the Free Jacks, he has made 22 appearances with 9 starts, bringing tempo, sharp decision-making, and competitive fire to the 9 jersey.

His 2025 stat line reflects his impact: 444 passes, 41 kicks for over 1,000 meters, 2 tries, 35 carries for 268 meters, and 58 tackles (including 5 dominant).

Nathan Salmon — Explosive Young New Zealand Winger Joins Free Jacks

The Free Jacks are thrilled to welcome 20-year-old New Zealand outside back Nathan Salmon to Boston for 2026. A powerful 6’2”, 215-lb winger, Salmon has risen quickly through New Zealand’s elite age-grade systems and arrives ready to unlock the next stage of his career.

“I’m excited for the opportunity to see a new part of the world, experience new cultures, and play some hissing rugby with the Free Jacks in 2026!”

A product of Whangārei and Whangārei Boys’ High School, Salmon earned selection to the New Zealand Secondary Schools Barbarians, New Zealand U19s, and New Zealand U18s Sevens, while also featuring with the Blues U20s. He debuted for the Northland Taniwha in 2024 and has already made 17 NPC appearances with four tries to his name.

Reuben Palmer — Towering Otago Lock Brings Edge to Forward Pack

Rising 6’7”, 265-lb lock Reuben Palmer will join New England for the 2026 campaign, bringing size, physicality, and an abrasive, hard-nosed style to the tight five. The 21-year-old New Zealander is currently developing within the Otago and Highlanders systems and is widely regarded as a future standout.

“I’m extremely grateful to the club for giving me an opportunity to live out my childhood dream and represent a proud history and community in New England.”

Born in Tauranga, Palmer captained Tauranga Boys’ College 1st XV and worked closely with current Free Jacks assistant coach Pingi Tala’apitaga through local pathways. Recruited by Otago and the Highlanders in 2023, he earned a National Development Contract and starred for the Highlanders U20s in 2023 and 2024. In Dunedin’s premier competition, he emerged as the top-performing lock for Dunedin RFC.

Tayne Hemopo — Versatile Lock/Loose Forward Adds Mobility and Aerial Strength

Versatile 6’4”, 250-lb forward Tayne Hemopo is set to join the Free Jacks pack for 2026 after a breakout NPC season with Tasman. Comfortable at both lock and in the back row, the soon-to-be 21-year-old offers mobility, aerial dominance, and a relentless work rate.

“First I would like to thank the man above for this opportunity to represent the Free Jacks in the 2026 season. I am very grateful, and I will wear the jersey with pride and honour.”

Hemopo progressed through the Nelson development pathway, starred for Nelson College, and later represented the Crusaders U20s before breaking through at NPC level with Tasman in 2024. This past season, he appeared in eight matches, showcasing his athleticism and high engine around the park. He also competes for Stoke in the Nelson senior club competition.

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