Keeping Pearson at Saints was 'huge priority', says boss Dowson
Phil Dowson says keeping Tom Pearson at Saints was ‘a huge priority’ after handing the influential flanker a new contract.
The 26-year-old arrived in Northampton in the summer of 2023 and made an immediate impact in black, green and gold.
Pearson featured 21 times in his debut season at Saints, helping the club to secure its first Gallagher PREM title in a decade.
He continued to play a key role as Saints reached the Investec Champions Cup final during the following campaign.
He then made 22 appearances and scored six tries in the 2025/26 season as the black, green and gold lifted the PREM trophy for the second time in three seasons.
And Saints boss Dowson said: “Keeping Tom at the club was a huge priority for us.
“Statistically, he’s right up there among the best back rowers in the league, but what stands out most is his desire to keep improving. He’s constantly looking for ways to get better, and that mindset fits perfectly with what we’re all about as a club.
“Physically, he’s an exceptional athlete. His ability to beat defenders, his power, speed and skill level make him a real handful, but there are also elements of his game that he’s worked tirelessly on with the coaches – particularly James Craig. His work around the maul, both in attack and defence, has improved enormously and has become a real strength.
"His versatility is incredibly valuable as well. Having someone who can perform across the back row gives us great flexibility, and the work Tom has put in to develop his game on the blindside has added another dimension to what he offers.
“The back row is one of the strongest and most competitive areas of our squad, and that competition is vital to the environment we want to create. The players in that group drive each other on every day, they all want to improve and they all want to play.
“Tom is a big part of setting those standards. Having players like him alongside younger guys such as Josh Taylor, Jack Lewis and Charlie Ulcoq is hugely important for the group. They can learn from him, but he also helps create the competitive environment that allows everyone to develop.
“We still think there’s plenty more to come from Tom. He’s got a really high ceiling, and we’re excited to see what he can achieve over the next few seasons.
“We’re delighted that he’ll be staying with us.”