Knights rising star Jermaine McEwen has pleaded guilty to drink driving and driving while suspended in Newcastle Local Court.
McEwen, 21, entered his plea on Thursday, June 25, admitting to driving while his licence was suspended as well as low-range drink driving on May 22.
He will be sentenced in August.
In a statement released earlier this month McEwen said he was deeply ashamed of his actions.
"There is no justification for what I did, getting behind the wheel with alcohol in my system was irresponsible, dangerous, and completely beneath the standards I hold myself to as a person and as a professional footballer.
"I'm fully aware of the trust the Newcastle Knights have placed in me, and I let the club, my teammates, and everyone who supports this team down."
McEwen was handed a one-match ban from the club when the charges were revealed, which ruled him out of their June 16 clash with the Dragons, and a suspended $5000 fine.
Knights coach Justin Holbrook said the young forward "made a poor choice" and has "hurt himself and our club".
In a statement, the Knights said: "McEwen reported the incident to the club at the time the incident occurred, and the club reported the matter to the NRL Integrity Unit.
"A thorough process continues to be undertaken by all parties required.
"Until due process is completed, the Newcastle Knights will not make any further comment."
McEwen, a back-rower, re-signed with Newcastle last month until the end of the 2028 season.
He has been a regular in the NRL team this year, starting all 12 games.
