The 26-year-old half-back will continue his career in Super League on a ‘multi-year’ deal.
Parramatta Eels have granted half-back Dean Hawkins an early release from his contract to pursue an opportunity in Super League.
The 26-year-old had 12-months remaining on his deal, having joined the Eels ahead of the 2025 season from South Sydney Rabbitohs on a two-year contract.
Reports down under emerged on Wednesday that Hawkins has signed a ‘multi-year’ deal in the northern hemisphere, with Parramatta confirming his release 24 hours later.
Hawkins made 12 appearances for the Eels in 2025, adding to his 14 games for the Rabbitohs. He made his NRL debut in 2021 against Brisbane Broncos, but heads to Super League in search for regular game time and a starting shirt.
Parramatta Eels general manager of football, Mark O’Neill, hailed Hawkins’ contributions to the club following his release.
“Dean really stepped up for us last season when Mitch [Moses] was out,” he said.
“He steered the team around with confidence, and earned the respect of everyone in the squad. He’s a true professional and he just loves the game which showed every time he pulled on the jersey.”
It remains to be seen which club Hawkins has joined, with several Super League teams currently in the market for a half-back.
Newcomers Bradford Bulls and Toulouse Olympique are looking to strengthen their squads ahead of their respective returns to the top flight for 2026, while Castleford Tigers and Leigh Leopards are also believed to be seeking options in the halves.
