Sam Eseh: The Rising Rugby League Prop Making Waves in British Sport

Sam Eseh is one of the most exciting young prospects in British rugby league today. With an imposing frame, a relentless work ethic, and a humble yet determined personality, Eseh has quickly captured the attention of fans, clubs, and commentators alike. As he continues to rise through the ranks, his journey reflects not only raw talent but also grit, discipline, and a deep love for the sport. This article explores the life, career, and promising future of Sam Eseh in depth, highlighting why he could become one of rugby league’s defining forwards of the next decade.

Early Life and Background

Born in Leeds in June 2003, Sam Eseh grew up in a region with a rich rugby heritage. From an early age, he displayed natural physical ability, but it was his attitude towards hard work that set him apart. He began playing for the amateur club East Leeds, where his potential quickly became evident. Coaches recognised not just his physical dominance, but also his eagerness to learn, improve, and contribute to the team.

Growing up in a working-class environment, Eseh often credits his upbringing with teaching him the values of perseverance, humility, and discipline. These characteristics have remained central to his playing style and his outlook on life.

Professional Debut with Wakefield Trinity

Sam Eseh’s professional career began with Wakefield Trinity, one of Super League’s longest-standing clubs. Making his debut at just 18 years old, he quickly made an impact with his strength in defence and assertiveness in attack. Despite being a newcomer, he handled the intensity of top-flight rugby with maturity well beyond his years.

In 2023, even though Wakefield struggled as a team and eventually faced relegation, Eseh was a shining light. His performances earned him the club’s Young Player of the Year award, confirming his growing reputation in the league.

The Wigan Warriors Opportunity

Following Wakefield’s relegation from Super League, Sam Eseh made a high-profile move to Wigan Warriors, signing a two-year deal ahead of the 2024 season. Wigan, known for their winning culture and high-performance environment, viewed Eseh as a long-term asset for their pack.

The move was described by Eseh himself as “life-changing.” It marked a step up in expectations and competition, but it also presented an opportunity for him to develop under some of the best coaches and alongside some of the most seasoned forwards in British rugby.

Although he didn’t feature regularly in Wigan’s starting line-up during his first year, the club’s strategy was clear: loan him out to other Super League teams to gain regular first-team experience, while keeping him firmly in their long-term plans.

Loan Spells and First-Team Growth

Throughout the 2024 and early 2025 seasons, Eseh was loaned to several Super League clubs, including Barrow Raiders, Featherstone Rovers, Castleford Tigers, Leeds Rhinos, and most notably, Hull FC.

It was during his time at Hull FC that he truly began to flourish. In just 11 appearances, he scored 3 tries and recorded over 530 metres, showcasing his growing influence in both attack and defence. Coaches praised his consistency, his physical dominance in contact situations, and his increased match awareness.

While loan spells can sometimes hinder a young player’s development due to lack of continuity, in Eseh’s case, it appeared to accelerate his learning curve. Each club exposed him to different systems, challenges, and expectations, making him a more complete player.

Playing Style and Strengths

Sam Eseh is a classic prop forward, standing at 193 cm and weighing around 108 kg. But what makes him stand out is not just his size, but the way he uses it. He carries the ball with explosive power, often making post-contact metres and drawing in multiple defenders. His tackling is aggressive but controlled, and he rarely shirks responsibility in defensive sets.

Moreover, his fitness levels and mobility allow him to play longer minutes than many players in his position. He doesn’t just bring impact in short bursts – he sustains pressure over time. Off the field, Eseh is said to be one of the most dedicated trainers, often going the extra mile to refine his game and build strength.

Another key asset is his mental approach. He remains grounded, listens to feedback, and constantly seeks to improve. Many coaches have remarked on his “coachability,” a quality that is increasingly valued at the elite level.

Character and Leadership Potential

While still young, Sam Eseh has already displayed signs of leadership. On loan at Hull FC, he was frequently consulted by senior players during games and showed excellent communication skills in defensive organisation. He leads by example and brings energy to training and matchday alike.

Off the pitch, he has also begun to engage more with the community. During his time at Wakefield and Hull, he participated in youth development sessions and local outreach events, using his platform to inspire the next generation of players.

His humility and professionalism make him a respected figure in the dressing room and a favourite among fans. There’s little doubt that as he matures, he could take on formal leadership roles within whichever club he ultimately settles into.

Wigan’s Long-Term Vision

Despite interest from other clubs, Wigan Warriors have made it clear that Sam Eseh remains in their long-term plans. Head coach Matt Peet confirmed in mid-2025 that Eseh would return to Wigan in 2026, and that the club sees him as a future cornerstone of their forward pack.

Wigan’s approach is deliberate. They’ve allowed him to develop away from the spotlight while keeping a close eye on his progress. By 2026, Eseh is expected to be ready to take on a bigger role in the first team, possibly replacing more experienced forwards who may be retiring or moving on.

This strategy not only reflects Wigan’s belief in his potential, but also the club’s commitment to developing homegrown British talent rather than relying solely on overseas imports.

Career Highlights So Far

• 2023 Young Player of the Year – Wakefield Trinity

• Successful loan spell at Hull FC with 3 tries in 11 appearances

• Over 500 running metres and strong tackle efficiency in 2025

• Signed to Wigan Warriors through to at least 2026

• Gained experience across multiple Super League teams

The Road Ahead

Looking ahead, Sam Eseh’s future is bright. He has already ticked many of the boxes that define successful Super League forwards – physical dominance, work ethic, adaptability, and professionalism. What’s left now is time, experience, and consistent exposure at the highest level.

If he continues on his current trajectory, Eseh could not only become a mainstay in the Super League but also put himself in contention for England selection. With the national team increasingly looking to refresh its forward pack, players like Eseh could be the answer to long-term squad depth and dynamism.

His development in the next two years will be crucial. At Wigan, he’ll have access to world-class coaching, medical support, and performance analytics. If he makes the most of these resources, there’s no reason why he can’t be one of the most dominant props in the competition by the time he’s 25.