In a major recruitment coup, the Parramatta Eels have officially secured the services of New Zealand international Brandon Smith on a four-year deal worth a reported $2.4 million.
Smith, 29, will depart the Sydney Roosters at the end of the current NRL season to join the Eels, where he is expected to take on a key leadership role in the spine. The hard-hitting hooker confirmed the news this morning, expressing excitement about his next chapter.
> “I’m ready for a fresh start — can’t wait to rip in with the Eels,” Smith said in a brief statement.
The signing ends weeks of speculation surrounding Smith’s future, with Parramatta beating out several rivals for his signature. Eels officials believe Smith’s toughness, experience, and on-field presence will be pivotal as the club looks to rebuild after a disappointing 2024 campaign.
Smith joined the Roosters in 2023 following a successful stint with the Melbourne Storm, where he won a premiership in 2020 and earned a reputation as one of the game’s most dynamic dummy-halves.
Eels head coach praised the acquisition as “a game-changing move” for the club.
> “Brandon brings exactly the kind of aggression, passion, and professionalism we need,” the coach said. “He’s a winner, and he’ll lift the standard here straight away.”
Smith is expected to link up with Parramatta during pre-season training in November ahead of the 2026 NRL season.
