'Undoubtedly one of the best' pens new deal with Northampton Saints

Northampton Saints have secured the long-term future of England and British and Irish Lions star Tommy Freeman after the versatile back signed a contract extension at Franklin’s Gardens, as reported by RugbyPass.

The 25-year-old still had another season remaining on his existing deal, but has now committed his future to the reigning Gallagher PREM champions, having already made 118 appearances and scored 79 tries for the club.

Freeman has played a major role in Northampton’s recent success, scoring in both of their PREM final victories against Bath in 2024 and Exeter Chiefs in 2026, while Saints also reached the Investec Champions Cup final in 2025.

The 2025 Lion has followed in the footsteps of fellow England backs Alex Mitchell, Fin Smith and Fraser Dingwall in signing new deals in the past year, with lock Alex Coles also putting pen to paper. The club are still yet to finalise a new contract for flanker Henry Pollock.

Able to operate across the back three or in midfield, Freeman has been hailed as “undoubtedly one of the best back-three players in the world” by Saints director of rugby Phil Dowson.

Fixture

Gallagher Premiership

Northampton

11:45

25 Sep 26

Newcastle

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Dowson said: “To have Tommy commit his future to the club so early in this season’s recruitment and retention cycle is a huge boost for us. We’re delighted that he’s chosen to continue his journey with Northampton Saints.

“Tommy is an exceptional player and undoubtedly one of the best back-three players in the world. The fact he has also performed at outside centre at international level speaks volumes about both his quality and versatility.

“While he’s still only 25, he already has a remarkable amount of experience from club and international rugby, including a British & Irish Lions tour. He has achieved a tremendous amount in the game already, but we genuinely believe there is even more to come from him.

“He’s the sort of player who can change a match in an instant. He has all the physical attributes you could want, but it’s his rugby intelligence, skillset and confidence that really set him apart.”

Freeman added: “Saints is a special place. We’ve got an incredible group of lads, a brilliant coaching set-up, and it’s the environment where I believe I can keep developing and get the best out of myself as a player.

“We’ve enjoyed some brilliant moments together over the last few years, but there’s a feeling that we’re still growing and building towards something even bigger.

“We’ve won two PREM titles, reached a European final, and we don’t think we’re finished yet. There are some exciting players coming into the group, and this is a squad that will only continue to grow with more experience and time together.

“I also love playing at Franklin’s Gardens. The pitch is always outstanding, the stands are always full, and the supporters turn up for us week after week. The atmosphere they create is incredible, and running out in front of a packed house was definitely another factor in wanting to stay here.”