The Parramatta Eels have strengthened their forward pack with the signing of a 29-year-old edge forward from a rival NRL club. The deal, reportedly worth $800,000 over three years, is seen as a strategic move to enhance the team’s edge depth and physicality ahead of the 2025 season.
The new signing joins a group of established and emerging edge forwards at the Eels, including Shaun Lane, Ryan Matterson, Kelma Tuilagi, Matt Doorey, and Toni Mataele. The addition brings further experience and intensity to an already competitive second-row rotation.
Parramatta struggled with consistency on the edges throughout the 2024 campaign, prompting the club to act early in the market. The new recruit—known for his strong defensive reads and high motor—has played over 100 first-grade games and is expected to push for a starting spot immediately.
Shaun Lane and Ryan Matterson, two of the club’s senior back-rowers, both hold player options for 2026, while Kelma Tuilagi recently extended his stay through 2026. Matt Doorey and Toni Mataele, both under contract beyond 2025, add further depth and versatility.
The Eels are banking on a more dynamic and defensively sound edge unit in 2025 as they look to rebound from a disappointing campaign and re-establish themselves as a finals contender.
More details on the new forward’s role are expected to surface during pre-season training later this year.
