England legend Martin Johnson’s Son Lands First Pro Rugby Deal
Rugby NewsTuesday, 19 May 2026 at 17:28
Leicester Tigers have confirmed that six exciting youngsters will graduate into the club’s Senior Academy ahead of the 2026/27 season, including Henry Johnson, the son of 2003 Rugby World Cup-winning England captain Martin Johnson.
The back-row forward, who attends Oakham School, is one of a highly-rated group to put pen to paper on Senior Academy contracts at Welford Road.
Joining Johnson in the latest intake are fly-half Oscar Talbot (Rugby School), second rows Fin Charles (Denstone College) and Kwame Bekoe (Norwich School), centre Ollie Myall (City of Oxford College) and scrum-half James Townsend (Warwick School).
More players are expected to be added to the Senior Academy in the coming weeks.
All six youngsters have featured in England’s age-grade pathway in recent seasons, highlighting the potential Leicester believe they possess.
Head of Academy George Glenn said: “It is fantastic to see a good number of the U18 squad transition into the Senior Academy.
“I’m excited to see how the players continue to develop and progress over the next few years. They have worked incredibly hard to get to this stage.
“Each member of the group has had involvement with the England pathway over the past few seasons, which reflects the potential that they individually show.”
Leicester also confirmed that further members of the wider Senior Academy squad will be announced shortly, along with details of an “exciting” playing programme for the club’s U23 side during the 2026/27 season.
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Leicester Tigers Confirm SEVEN Major Departures Ahead of Summer Rebuild
With Leicester preparing for a new era, here is a closer look at the players moving on.
George Martin to Saracens
George Martin is undoubtedly the headline departure.
The England international has developed into one of the Premiership's most formidable forwards and has become a regular fixture in Steve Borthwick's national squad. At just 24, Martin is entering the prime years of his career and his move to Saracens is a major statement signing for the North London club.
His physicality, work rate and versatility across the second row and back row will be extremely difficult for Leicester to replace.
Nicky Smith to Sale Sharks
Welsh international prop Nicky Smith will remain in the Premiership after agreeing a move to Sale Sharks.
Smith spent one season with Leicester and brought a wealth of experience to the front row following an impressive international career with Wales.
Known for his scrummaging strength and reliability at set-piece time, he will add further depth to Alex Sanderson's pack at Sale.
Hanro Liebenberg to the Bulls
The departure of Hanro Liebenberg is one of the most significant from a leadership perspective.
The South African back row forward captained Leicester and became one of the most respected figures at the club. His relentless work rate, toughness and consistency made him a fan favourite during his time at Welford Road.
Liebenberg will now return to South Africa to join the Bulls.
James O'Connor Released
Wallabies veteran James O'Connor leaves Leicester after a short-term spell.
The experienced playmaker brought composure and creativity when called upon, but his stay was always expected to be temporary.
Despite his limited time at the club, O'Connor's professionalism and experience were highly valued within the squad.
Izaia Perese Released
Powerful Australian centre Izaia Perese has also been released.
Perese offered explosive carrying and genuine attacking threat in midfield, providing Leicester with a dynamic option in the backline.
His departure adds to the significant changes taking place among the Tigers' backs.
Cameron Miell to Worcester Warriors
Back row forward Cameron Miell has secured a move to Worcester Warriors.
Miell showed promise during his time with Leicester but found opportunities limited as competition for places intensified.
The move offers him the chance for a fresh start and increased game time.
Harry Wells to Bedford Blues
Harry Wells' departure brings to an end a long association with his hometown club.
The experienced lock made more than 180 appearances for Leicester and was widely respected by teammates and supporters alike.
His move to Bedford Blues marks the close of a loyal and distinguished Tigers career.
Rugby Quiz: Can you name every Prem winner?
Since its inaugural 1987–88 season, English Premiership Rugby has produced unforgettable champions, legendary squads, and some of the fiercest rivalries in the sport.
From dominant dynasties to dramatic underdog triumphs, this quiz will test how well you remember every club that has lifted the title. Can you name every Premiership Rugby winner since the league began?
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- Jordie Barrett over Damian de Allende is far from being correct. The hype around Dupont is also overreaching, he's probably 4th in the world and has been since the 2023 WC. He also avoids certain matchups which is strange. The rest of the list is pretty good apart from minor subjective biases.JasonMarlow16-09-2026
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