Chiefs lock in prop Jared Proffit on two-year deal through 2028

The Chiefs have extended prop Jared Proffit’s contract by two years, keeping the 32-year-old in Hamilton until 2028 after a breakout 2026 Super Rugby Pacific campaign.

Proffit debuted for the Chiefs in 2023 against Moana Pasifika and has accumulated 33 Super Rugby caps — including one appearance for the Hurricanes in 2022 — but 2026 has marked a clear step up in his involvement. With Aidan Ross having departed for the Reds after last season, Proffit has seized the opportunity, recording more starts this year than in all his previous Chiefs seasons combined.

“It was a good opportunity to get a bit of game time, and I think it helps with the confidence having more games under the belt. I’ve been stoked with the amount of game time I’ve had,” Proffit said. “My focus is always just working hard, trying to out-work others, just using every opportunity you get.”

The prop described re-signing as a straightforward decision, citing both personal and professional reasons. “It’s good to get some stability for the family. And I wouldn’t want to go anywhere else, so it’s a privilege to be able to re-sign here.”

Chiefs head coach Jono Gibbes praised Proffit as a player who embodies what the club stands for. “Jared is a hugely trusted and respected member of this group. He works hard, is consistent in his performances, and has a huge work rate. He exemplifies a lot of the things we love about the Gallagher Chiefs, qualities that we think we stand for.”

Beyond Super Rugby, Proffit has further milestones in his sights in 2026. He has the opportunity to reach 100 appearances for Taranaki in the NPC and add to his two Maori All Blacks caps — recognition that arrived relatively late in a career built on reliability and relentless effort rather than early fanfare.