The South Sydney Rabbitohs have strengthened their squad ahead of the 2025 NRL season, confirming contract extensions for prop Shaquai Mitchell and second-rower Ben Lovett. Both players were initially set to become free agents at the end of the 2024 season but have now committed to one-year extensions, keeping them at the club through the 2025 campaign.
Mitchell, the brother of Rabbitohs star fullback Latrell Mitchell, has made steady progress since his NRL debut in 2022. Over the past three seasons, he has accumulated 20 NRL appearances, establishing himself as a valuable asset on the team’s roster. His versatility and skill set as a prop have earned him a regular spot in the squad, and his physicality and work ethic have not gone unnoticed by the coaching staff.
Ben Lovett, on the other hand, is a rising star in the Rabbitohs’ ranks. The second-rower made his NRL debut in Round 4 of the 2024 season, and while he has only played three first-grade games so far, the club sees significant potential in him. Lovett’s professionalism and commitment to his craft have quickly made him a favorite among the coaching staff and his teammates.
South Sydney Rabbitohs’ head of football, Mark Ellison, expressed his excitement about securing both players for another year. In a statement, Ellison praised the dedication and hard work that Mitchell and Lovett have shown during their time at the club.
“Shaq has worked incredibly hard to get to where he has in his career so far,” Ellison said. “He continues to show the work ethic required to play at the NRL level and he has progressed to representing his people in the annual All Stars game on a regular basis. He is very skilful for a big man and will play an important role in our team over the coming seasons.”
Ellison also highlighted Mitchell’s off-field contributions, acknowledging him as a family man and a role model within the team. “Shaq is also a wonderful family man, being a father of three kids, and he is a strong, positive influence on our playing group, having overcome some of the hurdles he has faced in his career and his life.”
Lovett’s re-signing also drew praise from Ellison, who lauded the second-rower’s professionalism and dedication. “Ben is one of the most professional players we have at the club, and he has shown he has the work ethic and dedication to play at the NRL level. His commitment to his football is matched by his commitment to helping his teammates, his club, and his community.”
Both Mitchell and Lovett will have significant roles to play in 2025 as the Rabbitohs aim to build on their recent seasons and continue to challenge for the premiership. The club’s decision to extend their contracts reflects the faith they have in both players to grow and contribute at the top level.
However, while the re-signings of Mitchell and Lovett provide a boost to the squad, the Rabbitohs will also be saying goodbye to several players at the end of the 2024 season. Eight players, including experienced veterans Damien Cook and Thomas Burgess, will depart, along with Michael Chee-Kam, Dean Hawkins, Leon Te Hau, Izaac Thompson, Dion Teaupa, and Richie Kennar.
There is also uncertainty surrounding the futures of Taane Milne and Isaiah Tass, who remain off-contract for the 2025 season. With some big names leaving, the Rabbitohs will be looking to fill those gaps, but for now, securing the future of key players like Mitchell and Lovett ensures the squad retains some stability heading into the next campaign.
As the 2025 season approaches, South Sydney fans can look forward to seeing Mitchell and Lovett continue to develop and make their mark in the famous red and green jersey.
