Two-time MLR champion headlines New England’s latest signings

USA Eagles outside back Mitch Wilson is returning to Fort Quincy for a sixth season with the New England Free Jacks. The three-time defending Major League Rugby champions have recently announced another five signing updates ahead of the 2026 season.

Wilson headlines a group who, as the club explained, is “a blend of returning champions and exciting new arrivals.” Ben Lesage, Piers Von Dadelszen, Nate Sylvia, Cyrille Cama and Ethan McVeigh have all put pen to paper on new deals with the franchise.

29-year-old Wilson has played 19 internationals for the Eagles, playing a key role as the USA qualified for the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia. Wilson recently started on the wing against Scotland at Murrayfield and came off the bench against Romania.

As an attacking threat at either fullback or on the wing, Wilson has made 68 appearances throughout his distinguished MLR career. 57 of those matches were with the Free Jacks from 2020 and 2024, helping the team win its first two championship titles.

Wilson spent last season with Anthem RC, which included a start against New England in round 10. The established USA international brings invaluable experience with him back to New England, as the club prepares to push for a four-peat.

“I’m thrilled to be back in a community that I have built many connections with during my professional career and to play for a club that has high standards both on and off the pitch,” Wilson said in a statement.

Ben Lesage has re-signed with the Free Jacks, as one of only four players who have played in all three championship matches. The midfielder picked up an ankle injury during the Conference Final last season, but fought through to bring the shield back to New England.

Lesage has played 43 of 73 MLR appearances for the Free Jacks, and has represented Canada in the Test arena 42 times. Von Dadelszen is another big inclusion for the 2026 season, with the English/Canadian playing a big role in two championship seasons.

“New England has become a second home for me and I’m thrilled to be back for another year. There will be a big hole left by the departure of so many Canadians, but I hope to represent them well and keep building off the previous successful Free Jacks seasons,” Lesage explained.

Von Dadelszen added: “Re-signing with the Free Jacks means a lot to me. The last two years in Quincy have been incredible — winning back-to-back championships with this group has been special.

“There’ll be a big hole with some of the Canadian boys moving on, but I’ll do my best to represent them well and carry forward the standards they helped build. Excited for another year with this team and this city behind us.”

USA Eagles duo Sylvia and McVeigh have signed deals for 2026. Sylvia has played eight seasons in MLR, with 90 appearances in the competition and four international caps for the United States.

McVeigh signs on after two seasons with Old Glory DC, having played 38 MLR games to date across stints with a few different clubs. Those two have joined New England along with 24-year-old hooker Cama who is a former USA U20s representative.

“Joining the Free Jacks is an exciting new chapter for my rugby career. They’ve built a culture that breeds success. I’m ready to put in the work, earn my place, and contribute to what this club is building,” Sylvia said.

McVeigh explained: “I’m really excited to join such a prestigious organisation within MLR. The coaching staff is exceptional, and I look forward to bringing my strengths and positive energy to the club. I can’t wait to experience the atmosphere at Fort Quincy and start the quest for the shield!”