'Takes the pressure off': Caleb Aekins signs new Bradford Bulls deal
Bradford Bulls full-back Caleb Aekins admits a weight has been taken off his shoulders after signing a new contract.
The New Zealander has been a standout performer for the Bulls since arriving from Featherstone Rovers on a one-year deal, scoring two tries and providing six assists in 14 games.
Bradford have duly rewarded Aekins with a contract through to the end of 2027.
"I'm over the moon with it," he said.
"I knew I had to prove myself again coming here and I think I have taken a step in the right direction there.
"But I've still got a long way to go and I'm just happy to be hanging around for another year.
"Sorting my future takes the pressure off. I know what I'm doing next year and my family are happy here. That's another thing I have boxed off and now I can look forward to the future with this team."
Aekins becomes the latest player to commit his future to the Bulls, following in the footsteps of Joe Mellor and Connor Wynne.
The ever-present 28-year-old has quickly proved he can handle the demands of Super League, according to Kurt Haggerty.
"I''m really happy with where Caleb's at," said the Bradford boss.
"He's somebody I had my eye on for a little while as I've always thought he was a Super League player. He stepped into this environment and shown that he's capable of being a very good Super League full-back.
"He's a highly valued member of our team."