Cowboys coach’s future sorted after months of speculation

Cowboys coach Todd Payten has been rewarded for a strong start to the season, officially putting pen to paper on a new two-year contract.

After months of speculation, Payten’s fresh deal will see him remain at the helm in North Queensland until the end of 2028.

“North Queensland is home for my family and I’m thrilled to be able to extend for another two seasons,” he said in a club statement.

“I love the club and the region because of the people within it.

“I am grateful to be leading this group of young men and we are committed to bringing the second premiership to North Queensland.”

Payten has been in charge of the Cowboys since 2021, leading them to the finals on two occasions.

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There had been calls for Payten to be axed after a poor 2025 campaign, but the Cowboys have returned to form this year.

The side sits just outside the top-eight this season with eight wins and six losses.

“Successful organisations don’t make short-sighted decisions and as a group we have taken the time to carefully assess the direction our club is heading,” Cowboys chairman David Myles said in a statement.

“Over recent months we have seen significant growth in both our football program and the leadership of Todd.

“While results are always important, our decision was based on much more than the ladder. We have seen clear improvement and alignment around standards, accountability, culture and the long-term direction of our club.

“The board is confident Todd is the right person to lead our club into the future.”