ORIGIN forward Jacob Lillyman has signed a two-year deal with the Warriors from next year in a move that will end his six-year stint as a Cowboy.
The North Queensland back-rower last night declared a desire to escape his "comfort zone" as the motive behind his move across the Tasman at season's end, in a deal expected to be officially announced as early as today.
Lillyman also revealed watching the likes of former Cowboy Micheal Luck and Morons stalwart Steve Price take their game to a new level in Auckland convinced him New Zealand was the right fit.
"I'm very excited. The Warriors are a really good club and it's a team with a lot of potential," Lillyman said.
"I look at the players who have gone over there and how much they've improved. It's a credit to their organisation."
Lillyman's signature is a coup for the New Zealanders, who will farewell veteran forward trio Ruben Wiki, Logan Swann and Wairangi Koopu at the end of the season.
His defection comes after he was told by the Cowboys to look elsewhere.
The Richmond junior was not highly regarded by incoming coach Neil Henry, who has mentored the 24-year-old back-rower in Origin camps from 2006 to the present.
"I needed a change. I've only ever lived in North Queensland," Lillyman said.
"The move will really help me. I've been here a few years and given it a crack.
"But at times I've been in my comfort zone and that has shown in my footy.
"I haven't taken my game to the level I want."
Lillyman has played four Origins for Queensland, including Game One this year, and will link with fellow Morons Price and Brent Tate in Auckland.
He is the Warriors' second successful capture from a Queensland club, following the signing of Broncos flyer Denan Kemp.
The Warriors have also confirmed backs Michael Crockett and Ryan Shortland will be released in October.