Jayden Okunbor, the towering winger who has faced both challenges and triumphs throughout his career, is once again making headlines. After an eventful journey through the National Rugby League (NRL), Okunbor has set his sights on forming a dynamic partnership with NRL star Josh Addo-Carr, marking a potential turning point in his career.
“I’m in the best shape of my life and ready to show what I’m truly capable of,” said Okunbor. “Teaming up with Josh is something I’ve been looking forward to. His speed and creativity are unmatched, and together, I think we can be a real force on the field. I love the way he plays, and I’m excited for what’s ahead.”
Jayden Okunbor’s NRL journey began in 2019 when he made his debut for the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs in round 3 against the Wests Tigers, putting in a solid performance with 214 running meters in a 22-8 win. In his very next match, Okunbor delivered a standout display against the Melbourne Storm, registering an incredible 290 meters and scoring his first NRL try, even managing to break through tackles from Storm captain Cameron Smith.
Following this early success, Okunbor was rewarded with a two-year contract extension with Canterbury, solidifying his future with the club until the end of 2021. However, his 2019 season was cut short due to a toe ligament injury, causing him to miss six weeks. Despite this setback, Okunbor finished the season with 10 appearances, playing a key role as Canterbury avoided the wooden spoon and upset some of the top teams in the league.
In 2020, Okunbor faced further adversity after being sidelined at the beginning of the season but returned to play in round 18 against Manly-Warringah, where Canterbury lost 32-20. His 2021 season was marred by injury again when he tore his anterior cruciate ligament during the Bulldogs’ final game of the 2020 season. After missing the first half of 2021, Okunbor made his comeback in round 18, scoring a try in Canterbury’s close 32-24 loss to the South Sydney Rabbitohs. Despite his efforts, the Bulldogs struggled throughout the season, finishing last on the table and earning the dreaded Wooden Spoon. Okunbor managed to score five tries in just seven appearances, showcasing his potential even in tough circumstances.
By 2022, Okunbor’s game time was limited, making only six appearances for Canterbury as the club finished 12th in the NRL. He also played in the NSW Cup Grand Final for Canterbury, where they suffered a defeat to Penrith.
Okunbor’s resilience showed once again in 2023 when he bounced back with some notable performances. In round 5, he was sent to the sin bin for a hip drop tackle in Canterbury’s 15-14 golden point win over North Queensland. Later in round 12, Okunbor scored a dramatic winning try for Canterbury with just under two minutes remaining, securing a 20-18 victory over Gold Coast. His ability to step up in crucial moments was evident throughout the season, catching the eye of English side Hull F.C., with whom he signed a contract in August 2023 to join the team ahead of the 2024 Super League season.
Okunbor made his debut for Hull F.C. in a round 1 showdown against arch-rivals Hull Kingston Rovers in 2024, though the team suffered a 22-0 defeat. His international journey took another turn in May when he joined Bradford Bulls on a short-term loan in the RFL Championship.
Okunbor’s experience in the Championship seems to have reignited his form, with the Bradford Bulls recently announcing that he had signed a one-year contract extension, keeping him with the club until the end of 2025. At just 27 years old, Okunbor is entering the prime of his career and has embraced the opportunity to prove his worth in the competitive English league.
“I’ve found some great form here at Bradford, and I’m committed to giving my all for the club. But I’m also excited about what lies ahead in my career,” Okunbor remarked.
While Okunbor continues to thrive in England, his eyes remain fixed on an exciting potential partnership with Josh Addo-Carr. The combination of Okunbor’s physicality and Addo-Carr’s blistering speed could be one of the most dangerous duos in rugby league.
“I’ve always admired Josh’s game. He’s quick, creative, and has the ability to turn a match on its head. Playing alongside him would be a dream come true, and I’m ready for whatever comes next,” Okunbor said.
With his career revitalized and his ambitions clear, Jayden Okunbor’s story is far from over. His journey from the Bulldogs to Bradford Bulls and his aspirations to team up with Addo-Carr show a player who has grown through adversity and is now ready to make an even greater impact on the game. Fans, get ready—Okunbor’s best is yet to come.