New nib Newcastle Knights recruit Hymel Hunt is recovering from a shoulder injury.
Head of Physical Performance, Balin Cupples said the former South Sydney back is in better shape than initially expected.
"Hymel had a labral repair in his shoulder, coming from the Bunnies," Cupples told newcastleknights.com.au.
Injury Report: Tau Moga, Daniel Saifiti and Hymel Hunt
"He's arrived in a lot better shape, both physically and with the injury than we expected.
"We've been able to move him along ... he'll re-join the main team from next week.
"It's probably a week ahead for Hymel."
Tautau Moga missed the bulk of the 2018 season with an ACL injury but is making great progress in his return to the field.
"Tau continues to put the hard work in," Cupples said.
"For the last week or so, he's been in the main group with conditioning.
"From next week we're building into some of that non-contact skills which will be a big milestone for him."
Daniel Saifiti finds himself in a similar boat to Moga.
"For me, it's just trying to get this club with so much rich history back on track."
Cupples said the forward is moving well after overcoming a foot injury.
"He's been steadily building up his running loads," he said.
"In two weeks' time he'll go into that non-contact skill element."
Injured players and expected return dates:
Kalyn Ponga (Ankle - Round 1)
Connor Watson (Groin - Round 1)
Daniel Saifiti (Foot - Round 1)
Jacob Saifiti (Shoulder – Round 1)
Danny Levi (Back - Round 1)
Hymel Hunt (Shoulder - Round 1)
Tautau Moga (ACL - Early Rounds)
Slade Griffin (ACL - Indefinite)
