Spotlight on Dylan Brown: Pressure Intensifies as Brad Fittler Critiques ‘Irresponsible’ $13 Million Deal

All attention will be squarely on Eels sensation Dylan Brown in the coming month, particularly with the Knights’ substantial $13 million proposal for next season hanging in the balance.

The five-eighth has been the talk of the town for weeks, as speculation surrounding his NRL future escalates just before the season kicks off.

Brown has been strongly linked to a decade-long move to Newcastle, and with his halves partner Mitchell Moses out injured at the start of the season, the onus will be on the Kiwi talent to prove his worthiness for such a hefty contract.

Speaking on Nine’s Sunday Footy Show, league great Andrew Johns expressed a degree of sympathy for the Parramatta star, who will undoubtedly face scrutiny at every turn.

“I empathise with Dylan—everyone will be watching him closely,” he remarked.

“He’s a phenomenal player, but the question remains: can he lead a team as a halfback? Can he don the No.7 jersey and guide a squad effectively? It’s uncertain.

“In the coming six weeks, it will be his audition.

“He’s truly under immense pressure to navigate this situation well.”

Since making his debut as a teenager, Brown has proven himself as one of the league’s premier five-eighths, yet he has never occupied the top spot at Parramatta.

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This situation will evolve for the 24-year-old both in the immediate term, as Moses recovers, and potentially long-term should he accept Newcastle’s offer.

“I don’t see that being a negative for him,” noted Paul Gallen.

“If he aspires to be a halfback fetching $1.3 million yearly, then facing this level of pressure and proving he can handle it will demonstrate his worth.

“If he can’t deliver, perhaps he’s not worth that sum … but if someone’s willing to pay it, who would decline?”

While the Knights are eager to acquire a marquee player, Brad Fittler has voiced concerns that the substantial funds being offered may jeopardise the stability of the rest of the squad.

“I think it’s a bit reckless on the Knights’ part to have both Kalyn [Ponga] and him commanding nearly $3 million combined,” the former NSW Blues coach remarked.

Brown has not shared any public statements about his negotiations, yet he has until round 10 to decide on a player option that could see him stay in blue and gold.