MLR Notes: Long-term deal for Aoake, Humphreys and Muller sign

Tomas Aoake has signed a three-year extension with San Diego, committing to the 2023 Finalists through the 2026 Major League Rugby campaign. The 28-year-old flyer was a staple in the Legion’s lineup this past season and was one of the league’s top try-scorers.

Since arriving ahead of the 2022 season Aoake has been a consistent starter on the wing, though the New Zealander is also a capable midfielder. On several occasions this past year he switched from wing to inside center during the second half, using his footwork and offloading ability to challenge the defense.

Old Glory have snapped up another high quality outside back in English winger Perry Humphreys. A long-time member of the Worcester Warriors, he has been out of contract since the financial collapse of the Premiership club last fall. Humphreys joins former Argentina 7s star Axel Müller and Scotland international Damien Hoyland in a new-look back three for DC.

Another Muller, Marcell that is, will return to MLR in 2024 with the Jackals. The 22-year-old winger played with Houston during the 2022 campaign but struggled to get game time due to import limits. He returned to South Africa to play for the Cheetahs this past year and will now take a second crack at American rugby. Muller has size and pace to burn and should be one to watch in the new year.

Also back in MLR is former Eagles flyhalf Will Magie, but not as a player. The 31-year-old has joined the Hounds as their new Head of Player Operations. According to a media release, he’ll be focusing on player welfare off the pitch and helping veterans plan for life after rugby. Magie retired at the end of the 2022 season after starring with Austin.

One of the breakthrough players of the 2023 season has re-upped with Toronto. D’Shawn Bowen made an instant impression in his April debut and provided no shortage of highlight-reel runs before season’s end. Arrows fans will have high expectations of the 27-year-old with a full preseason behind him in 2024.

Utah have secured two of their top prospects for another year. Tighthead prop Takaji Young Yen and winger Jesse Hamilton will return after limited but promising showings in 2023. Young Yen played just two games as a reserve but went on to win his first Eagles cap on their August tour to Europe. Hamilton impressed in New York during the season finale and capped a memorable day a try on debut.