Daniel Atkinson is a versatile and dynamic playmaker contracted with the St George Illawarra Dragons until the end of the 2028 NRL season, bringing creativity, competitiveness, and genuine utility value to the club.

Originally an Albany Creek Crushers junior, Atkinson made his NRL debut for the Melbourne Storm in Round 25, 2021, before joining the Cronulla Sharks in 2023. He went on to make 35 appearances for Cronulla across the 2023–2025 seasons.

His breakout year came in 2024, where he played 19 matches, scoring five tries, kicking 14 goals, and landing two field goals for a total of 50 points. One of his standout performances was in May 2024, when he guided the Sharks to a 25–18 victory over the Melbourne Storm at AAMI Park, slotting four conversions and a decisive field goal.

His impact and connection with the fan base saw him named the Cronulla Sharks’ 2024 Members Player of the Year.

On the international stage, Atkinson made his debut for Italy at the 2021 Rugby League World Cup, playing a key role in their 28–4 win over Scotland on October 16, 2022. After emerging as one of the Sharks’ most promising utilities, Atkinson secured a long‑term move to the Dragons, where he is expected to feature prominently in the halves from 2026 onward.