In a stunning turn of events, Parramatta Eels legend Jarryd Hayne has announced his return to professional rugby league, signing a one-year deal with the Eels for the 2026 NRL season.
The 37-year-old fullback, who last played in the NRL in 2018, said he’s been training privately and feels ready for “one last run” with the club where he made his name.
> “I’ve got unfinished business in blue and gold,” Hayne said in a press conference on Wednesday. “Parramatta has always been my home. I want to help bring that long-awaited premiership to the fans.”
In an even bigger twist, Hayne will be linking up with star halfback Nathan Cleary, who recently stunned the NRL world by signing with the Eels for 2026.
> “It’s surreal,” Cleary said. “Jarryd was one of my idols growing up. To now call him a teammate is something I never thought would happen.”
Eels coach Brad Arthur welcomed the comeback, saying Hayne’s leadership and experience could be the “missing piece” in the team’s premiership puzzle.
Fans have flooded social media with excitement, calling the announcement “the greatest day in club history.”
Whether this bold move will end Parramatta’s long title drought remains to be seen — but one thing’s for sure: the 2026 season just got a whole lot more interesting.
