O’Brien’s current deal (through 2027) contains a sharp **performance clause** — if the Knights drop into the bottom five (13th or lower) at any point during the final three rounds of either the **2026** or **2027** seasons, the club can unilaterally terminate the contract ([zerotackle.com][1]).
* **No Clause in 2025**: Interestingly, that condition doesn’t apply this coming season. Management is giving him 2025 to prove his worth before potential dismissal kicks in .
* **Pressure Cooker Situation**: O’Brien has openly acknowledged the “target” on his back as the Knights hover near the bottom of the ladder ([sportingnews.com][2]).
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## Next Move: Signals of Transition
* **Uncertain Outlook**: While Adam hasn’t announced any definite next destination, speculation is swirling that – if the 2025 season goes south early – he may **explore coaching opportunities with other NRL clubs** before the **2026 regular season begins**.
* **Knights on Alert**: Newcastle have reportedly begun quietly lining up external coaching options, aware that O’Brien could depart, voluntarily or otherwise, after 2025 ([zerotackle.com][1], [sporthour.co.uk][3]).
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## O’Brien Reflects on 2024 Challenges
* He admitted key missteps—failure to secure a quality halfback after Mitchell Pearce’s departure and disrupted pre‑season—played a major role in the Knights’ tumultuous 2024 ([sportingnews.com][4]).
* Still, O’Brien has defended his integrity and commitment, stating he hasn’t lost confidence—but acknowledges he’s under immense scrutiny .
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## What to Watch in 2025
* **Performance is critical**: O’Brien has the full season to rebuild confidence and climb out of danger. A repeat of last year’s struggles may activate that 2026 clause.
* **Contractual flexibility**: Either he turns the ship around—and secures his long-term future—or a tabula rasa awaits at the end of 2025.
* **Early moves likely**: Players and pundits anticipate he’ll either commit to a new club or be replaced by mid‑2026, well ahead of the next campaign.
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In short: Although Adam O’Brien remains Newcastle’s head coach for 2025, his contract is loaded with triggers. A poor season could prompt the club to cut ties before 2026, and rumor mills suggest he may already be eyeing other NRL roles for the upcoming off‑season.
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