Reports note that Exeter’s contract with Hodge was ending this season, with a reported £275,000-per-year offer to return to the North East.

The move aligns with Newcastle’s broader recruitment push, following the acquisition of Hoskins Sotutu to strengthen the squad.

The club’s sporting GM emphasizes that the signing is a milestone for developing English talent at Newcastle and keeping academy graduates from seeking opportunities elsewhere.

Hodge speaks of unfinished business at Newcastle, his excitement about the club’s new Red Bull era, and strong desire to play in front of northern crowds.

Hodge’s England A performances and junior accolades, including top points at the 2019 World Rugby U-20 Championship, underscore his standing in English rugby.

Newcastle Red Bulls have signed England A full-back Josh Hodge on a three-year contract, bringing back the academy graduate to Kingston Park where his professional career began.

Hodge leaves Exeter Chiefs after five seasons, where he became a key player with 89 appearances and 29 tries, and returns to Newcastle five years after departing.

Newcastle’s context includes a challenging season for Exeter-centered rebuilding, including eight Premiership losses and a recent defeat to Bristol that earned a losing bonus point.

Officials describe Hodge as versatile, capable at full-back or wing, reinforcing Newcastle’s ambition to nurture homegrown players.

Hodge also expressed gratitude to Exeter Chiefs and its fans as he aims to finish the season strongly in Devon.

He will finish the current season with Exeter before joining Newcastle for the 2026/27 campaign, signaling a planned mid-term transition.

Notably, he is known for double-footed goal-kicking ability and his 2019 junior world title as a top points scorer.