Jake Clifford: North Queensland Cowboys halfback returns home

Introduction: Why Jake Clifford’s return matters

The return of Jake Clifford to the North Queensland Cowboys ahead of the 2024 season is significant for fans and the club. As a Cairns-born playmaker developed through the Cowboys’ pathways, Clifford brings experience across the NRL and Super League and offers depth at halfback and five-eighth for a team looking to strengthen its spine. His move highlights the ongoing value of local junior development and mid-career player movements in modern rugby league.

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Early development and junior honours

Born in Cairns, Queensland on 2 January 1998, Clifford came through the Tully Tigers junior system before joining the Cowboys as a junior member of Aaron Payne’s NYC team in 2016. He was named the 2017 NYC Player of the Year, a recognition that led to a two-year contract in the Cowboys’ senior squad.

Career highlights and club history

Clifford has been described as a versatile halfback and five-eighth. During his early senior pathway he was a standout in the Queensland Cup, being a finalist for the Player of the Year Award and claiming the competition’s Rookie of the Year despite playing just 16 games in that campaign. Over four seasons with North Queensland, he appeared in 42 games, scored seven tries and kicked 19 goals. Between 2021 and 2023 Clifford spent time with the Newcastle Knights in the NRL and Hull FC in the Super League, gaining further first-grade and international experience.

Return to North Queensland for 2024

In late 2023 Clifford signed a one-year contract to return to the Cowboys for the 2024 season and is contracted until the end of 2024. Speaking about the move, Clifford said he was “over the moon to be back in a Cowboys jersey” and that “it’s always been home for me,” underlining the personal significance of the return.

Player profile

Clifford is listed at 184 cm and 95 kg, and was 28 years old at the time of the 2024 signing. His combination of junior pedigree, representative recognition and varied club experience shapes expectations for his role at the Cowboys.

Conclusion

Jake Clifford’s return to North Queensland presents a pragmatic short-term boost for the Cowboys’ playmaking ranks and reinforces the club’s pathway story. Contracted through 2024, Clifford’s performances that season will determine whether the club pursues a longer-term arrangement and how influential he becomes in the team’s plans moving forward.