Henry Pollock, the 21-year-old back row, just locked in a new deal with his boyhood club, Northampton, extending his terms through summer 2028. But get this, he turned down rival offers that were worth hundreds of thousands of pounds more, with his adviser Eddie Hearn confirming Pollock “left a lot of money on the table.” We’re talking “well in excess of seven figures” from some suitors, a figure Hearn himself previously valued at £1 million annually. That’s a wild move for a young star.
The Heart Wants What It Wants, Even If It’s Less Cash
So why turn down a potential fortune? Hearn said they had a straight talk, and Pollock’s answer was simple: “no, I really don’t want to go.” He knew the numbers, knew the massive difference in potential earnings, but ultimately, he just wanted to stay with Northampton. Hearn put it bluntly, it wasn’t even a tough decision for him. Pollock’s new contract is worth more than £400,000 a year, which isn’t chump change, but it “didn’t quite get to the number” Hearn targeted. However, with endorsement deals from major financial, household, performance, nutritional, and wellness brands, Pollock is “comfortably over £1m in total annual earnings.” Smart kid, building that brand while staying loyal to the Saints.
Olympic Dreams and the Salary Cap Nightmare
Pollock isn’t just focused on club rugby, either. He’s keen on exploring the chance to represent Great Britain in rugby sevens at the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles. The new deal doesn’t guarantee him dedicated time like some other stars get, but the Saints are open to sensible conversations about these opportunities, as long as his “principal obligation is to perform for Northampton and to help them win championships.” Hearn, never one to hold back, also laid into the Prem’s £6.4m salary cap, which he compared to similar systems in major American sports. He wants it scrapped entirely. “Let the players earn,” Hearn demanded, arguing that the cap restricts players and could lead to “a disaster for English rugby” if a talent like Pollock were lost.
This new deal shows what staying loyal to your roots can mean, even when big money calls. With Pollock committed through 2028, and eyeing the LA Olympics, Northampton fans have a ton to be excited about. You just know this kid is going to keep pushing, both for club championships and that Olympic dream.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by BBC Sport.
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