Sheffield Eagles head coach Craig Lingard has dipped back into his former club, Castleford Tigers, to secure the services of seasoned forward George Griffin on a two-year deal. The 33-year-old, who brings a wealth of experience with over 230 Super League appearances, becomes the second player to follow Lingard from Castleford to the Steel City Stadium, joining centre Josh Hodson.
Griffin, a former player for Hull KR, London Broncos, and Salford Red Devils, was part of Salford’s squad that reached the Super League Grand Final in 2019, where they were defeated by St Helens. His signing is seen as a significant coup for the Eagles, with Lingard praising the forward’s technical ability and leadership qualities.
“Griff is a massively experienced individual and has got a really good pedigree,” Lingard said. “He’s one of the best defensive and technical players I’ve worked with, and I think he will be a leader for us on and off the field and help bring on our senior as well as younger players.”
The move reunites Griffin with Lingard, who coached him during his tenure at Castleford in 2024. Griffin expressed enthusiasm about the transfer, citing his familiarity with Lingard’s coaching style as a key factor. “This move just seems to make sense for me,” Griffin said. “I’ve worked with him before at Castleford, I like the way Linners operates as a coach and his approach to training.”
In addition to Griffin and Hodson, Lingard has been active in the transfer market, bolstering the Eagles’ squad with winger Joe Brown, versatile forward Conor Fitzsimmons from York Knights, and Keighley Cougars hooker Harry Bowes, all signed on contracts running through 2027. These acquisitions signal Lingard’s intent to build a competitive squad capable of challenging in the upcoming seasons.