Andrew McCullough has joined Newcastle Knights for the rest of the 2020 NRL season, leaving Brisbane Broncos.

McCullough, 30, departs the Broncos after 260 NRL games for the club across 13 seasons, including two appearances this year.

The former Queensland representative will join the Knights for the rest of the season, it was confirmed by both clubs on Thursday.

"We are in a position thanks to good governance from Alex McKinnon to have a top-30 spot available to secure someone of Andrew McCullough's calibre," Knights coach Adam O'Brien said in a statement.

"As one of the leaders of the club, it's my responsibility to be looking at recruitment and retention to have us field a competitive team each week.

"We are on foreign ground with the draw stating we have to play 18 games straight and we need to forward plan.

"We have faith in the depth of our roster but also recognise that promising talent Chris Randall is on the start of his journey having joined the team as a train and trial player late last year.

"Connor Watson is another exceptional player who can fill the role at nine but given his versatility it's important for the make-up of the team to keep him in his current explosive role.

"Taking a holistic approach to the team, the recruitment of Andrew McCullough gives us valuable experience at the highest level."

Newcastle won their opening two games of the NRL season to sit second in the table.

The Knights restart their campaign with a clash against Penrith Panthers on May 31.