HULL KR have signed North Queensland Cowboys forward Karl Lawton on a three-year contract.
Following the exit of Kelepi Tanginoa to Warrington Wolves, Rovers had a spare overseas quota spot which has now been filled by hooker or second-row Lawton.
The 30-year-old has 115 NRL games under his belt for with Gold Coast Titans, New Zealand Warriors, Manly Sea Eagles and the Cowboys.
He was granted a release from the final year of his North Queensland contract to join the Super League champions.
Lawton said: “I’m pumped, I can’t wait to start.
“Hull KR are a successful club with a great reputation. Everyone that’s spoke about the club that’s been there in the past has loved it.
“Willie (Peters, head coach) has told me about his values and what this club stands for, and I just want to come and reinforce that.
“The fans already have something to cheer about with the great season they’ve had. I just want to replicate that, put my best foot forward and earn everyone’s respect.”
Lawton is Hull KR’s eighth signing for 2026, though only the third with significant first-team experience after props Tom Amone and Jordan Dezaria, from Castleford Tigers and Catalans Dragons respectively.
Peters highlighted his versatility, saying: “Karl can play various positions, which will help balance our squad for 2026.
“Karl’s best positions are hooker and back-row. However, he can play loose-forward and centre as well which will be a great asset for us next year.
“Karl’s biggest strengths are his effort areas and he’s a player others like to play with.”
Lawton has been given the number 19 shirt, joining the rest of the squad whose numbers were revealed on Monday.
Hull KR squad numbers: 1 Arthur Mourgue, 2 Tom Davies, 3 Peta Hiku, 4 Oliver Gildart, 5 Joe Burgess, 6 Mikey Lewis, 7 Tyrone May, 8 Sauaso Sue, 9 Jez Litten, 10 Tom Amone, 11 Dean Hadley, 12 James Batchelor, 13 Elliot Minchella, 14 Jack Broadbent, 15 Sam Luckley, 16 Jai Whitbread, 17 Rhyse Martin, 18 Jack Brown, 19 Karl Lawton, 20 Jordan Dezaria, 21 Noah Booth, 22 Bill Leyland, 23 Lee Kershaw, 24 Jack Charles, 25 Louix Gorman, 26 Harvey Horne, 27 Leon Ruan, 28 Zach Fishwick, 29 Tom Whitehead, 30 Cobie Wainhouse, 31 Declan Murphy, 32 Jumah Sambou, 33 Frankie Dearlove.