Exeter Chiefs sign Carwyn Tuipulotu for rest of season

Exeter Chiefs have signed Carwyn Tuipulotu for the rest of the 2026/27 season.

The 25-year-old arrives as a free agent. That means he was without a club and free to join outside the usual transfer window. He plays number eight, the back-row forward who packs down at the back of the scrum and is often trusted to carry the ball into heavy traffic. The deal was confirmed on 6 October. BBC Sport

Tuipulotu was born in Wales and played for Wales at under-20 level, the international pathway just below the senior Test team. He started his professional career with Scarlets, the Welsh regional side. He then joined Saracens, the English Premiership club, on a short-term loan in 2025. A loan is a temporary switch where a player turns out for another club before returning to his parent side.

Last season took him to France with Pau in the Top 14, France's top division. He had most recently been training with Dragons, another Welsh regional side, before Exeter offered a route back into full-time club rugby. Training with a squad without a contract is a common way for players between clubs to stay fit and push for a deal.

Rugby runs deep in his family. He is the son of former Tonga international Kati Tuipulotu. His cousins include current Exeter back-row Greg Fisilau, Wales No. 8 Taulupe Faletau and England forwards Billy and Mako Vunipola.

Tuipulotu said players in and around Exeter spoke highly of the club and its culture, in comments published by Exeter Chiefs. Warm words from inside the game can count for a lot. They helped convince him Devon was the right next step.

What makes this stand out for supporters is how quickly he could feel at home. Fisilau is already part of Exeter's back row, the trio of forwards built for tackling, carrying and breakdown work. Lining up alongside a cousin gives Tuipulotu a familiar face from day one.

For newcomers, the Premiership is England's top division. It is quick, direct and physically demanding, especially in the winter months when pitches cut up. A fit and eager ball-carrier has every chance to force his way into contention. Competition is fierce, and fresh legs matter.