He was close to becoming an inaugural Perth Bear, but in the end Jamie Humphreys is backing himself to win back his first-grade starting spot and staying put in the burrow after extending with South Sydney on a new two-year deal.

The extension will keep the 24-year-old at the Bunnies until at least the end of the 2028 season.

“I’m stoked to be staying here at Souths, it’s become a home to me since I joined two years ago,” Humphreys said on news of the new deal.

“I get to live my dream and represent this great club and all of the fans, I’m excited and I can’t wait to keep going on this journey.”

Humphreys made his NRL debut with the Sea Eagles in 2024, before linking with the Rabbitohs in 2025 season.

Tipped for a long future in the South Sydney halves, Humphreys began 2026 in the No.7 jersey but ultimately struggled to hold down a regular first-grade spot with both Ashton Ward and Jayden Sullivan overtaking him in Wayne Bennet’s halves pecking order, while he was also used as cover at hooker and lock.

Humphreys made 18 NRL appearances last season, but 12 of those came off the bench with his last start coming in Round 9.

Injuries also curtailed much of Humphreys’ 2026 campaign including persistent hamstring and rib issues at the back end of the season.

Humphreys, who spent several years of his childhood in the UK, also made himself available for England at the 2026  Rugby League World Cup, but was not selected.