In the wake of Dylan Brown’s blockbuster $13 million move to the Newcastle Knights, the Parramatta Eels have officially confirmed they will be making major decisions regarding their five-eighth position, with plans already underway to reshape the club’s attacking future.
The 24-year-old Kiwi playmaker will remain with the Eels until the end of the 2025 season before joining Newcastle on the richest deal in NRL history. His departure has left a significant void in the Blue and Gold’s spine—a gap that the Eels are wasting no time in addressing.
Club officials released a statement today confirming that a strategic review is in progress to determine the best long-term replacement at the No. 6 position.
> “Dylan has been an incredible servant to the club. With his future now settled, we’re turning our full attention to building a strong spine beyond 2025,” said Eels General Manager Mark O’Neill. “We’ve got internal talent, and we’re also open to market options.”
Among the early contenders to fill Brown’s boots are:
Dylan Walker, recently acquired from the Warriors, who brings experience and versatility;
Toby Sexton, a promising young half reportedly being scouted;
And local junior Blaize Talagi, who has impressed in NSW Cup and is seen as a long-term project.
Parramatta has also confirmed they are keeping Mitchell Moses as the cornerstone of their halves, and any new five-eighth will be chosen to complement his playing style.
Brown, meanwhile, has assured fans that he remains “100% committed” to finishing the season strong with the Eels.
> “I love this club, and I owe it to the boys and the fans to give everything I’ve got this year,” Brown said.
The decision now looms large for Parramatta’s coaching staff and recruitment team, as the club prepares for a new era without one of its brightest stars.
