Josh Jackson

Jackson, 28, has played 181 games for the Bulldogs since making his NRL debut for Canterbury in 2012.

The former Australia and New South Wales representative extended his stay with the Bulldogs on Sunday.

"It really is fantastic news and a great early Christmas present for our members and fans that Josh has re-signed with the club," Bulldogs chief executive Andrew Hill said in a statement.

"He is an incredibly popular figure here at Belmore and he represents everything that is great about our club in the way that he carries himself on and off the field.

Jackson was one of Hasler’s biggest supporters and the text he received from the former coach after being named as James Graham’s successor as captain only added to the emotion of a special moment for the 27-year-old.

"He sent me a text after they announced the captaincy which is something I really appreciated,” Jackson said.

"I will always have a lot of time for Des. He gave me my first opportunity. I grew a lot as a player and as a person under him. He’s someone that I respect a lot.

NSW coach Laurie Daley has yet to decide on who will captain the state in 2017 after Gallen stepped down from Blues duties following this year's series loss.

However if it was up to him, it would go to one of his first-choice second-rowers.

 The pair entered an early guilty plea for their respective charges in Round 16.

Saifiti was cited for his tackle on Dragons forward Tyson Frizell (grade one dangerous contact).

Meanwhile Jackson was slapped with a grade one dangerous throw on Tevita Pangai Jnr, but will be free to play against the Roosters on Thursday night.