The Mole: Significant ‘concern’ that could undo Parramatta’s ‘transformation’ with new coach Jason Ryles

Not many clubs can rival the transformation the Parramatta Eels have undergone this summer – and it’s fair to say that the overhaul was long overdue.

Finishing 15th with an otherwise strong roster, the Eels also boasted the second-worst defensive statistics in the league, outperforming only the Wests Tigers. Club officials recognised it was time for change.

Midway through the season, long-serving coach Brad Arthur was relieved of his duties, and his successor, Jason Ryles, made the bold move to release two key figures from the team – fullback and captain Clinton Gutherson, alongside experienced prop Reagan Campbell-Gillard.

Fan favourite Maika Sivo has joined Arthur at Leeds, but the acquisitions of Zac Lomax from the Dragons or Josh Addo-Carr from Canterbury are anticipated to be significant signings.

Additional recruits Isaiah Iongi (Panthers) and Jack Williams (Sharks) are expected to bring their own flair to the team, yet there’s considerable pressure on young Iongi to step up and fill Gutherson’s shoes at the back.

Offensively, scoring points has never been a concern – they outperformed both the Bulldogs and Knights in scoring during the previous season, yet the emphasis for Ryles this time around will be on shoring up their defence, which averaged nearly 30 points conceded per game.

The halves combination of Mitchell Moses and Dylan Brown remains a standout for the Eels, forming one of the most compelling playmaking duos in the league.

Thanks to their contributions, players like Will Penisini and Bailey Simonsson enjoyed ample opportunity to showcase their skills.

In the forwards, the team boasts an impressive lineup with prolific offloaders like Shaun Lane, J’maine Hopgood, Ryan Matterson, and Junior Paulo, who all have the ability to create openings for their teammates.

The hooking position, on the other hand, raises some concerns, as several players are vying for selection but none have emerged as a definitive choice – a situation that could prove detrimental for the Eels.

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New Signings for 2025

Zac Lomax (Dragons), Isaiah Iongi (Panthers), Dean Hawkins (Rabbitohs), Joash Papalii (Bulldogs), Jordan Samrani (Bulldogs), Jack Williams (Sharks), Kitione Kautoga (Bulldogs), Josh Addo-Carr (Bulldogs), Ronald Volkman (Dragons)

Departures for 2025

Ethan Sanders (Raiders), Blaize Talagi (Panthers), Reagan Campbell-Gillard (Titans), Maika Sivo (Leeds Rhinos), Clint Gutherson (Dragons), Daejarn Asi (Castleford), Ky Rodwell (Wakefield Trinity), Makahesi Makatoa (released), Morgan Harper (Warriors), Ofahiki Ogden (released), Tevita Taumoepenu (released), Zac Cini (Castleford)

Top Signing:

Josh Addo-Carr is undeniably one of the premier wingers in the game. Teaming up with Moses and Brown, he could emerge as a top contender for the league’s leading tryscorer if all goes well.

Crucial Season For:

With RCG’s departure, Junior Paulo faces added scrutiny. He possesses the skills, but after a subdued previous season, he must elevate his performance.

Major Question Mark: There’s little doubt Ryles has the talent at his disposal – the real challenge will be whether he can harness it effectively in his inaugural season.

Predicted Finish: 10th

Projected 17 for Round One: 1. Isaiah Iongi 2. Joash Papali’i 3. Zac Lomax 4. Will Penisini 5. Bailey Simonsson 6. Dylan Brown 7. Mitchell Moses 8. Junior Paulo 9. Joey Lussick 10. Joe Ofahengaue 11. Shaun Lane 12. Bryce Cartwright 13. J’maine Hopgood 14. Brendan Hands 15. Jack Williams 16. Ryan Matterson 17. Wiremu Greig

Betting Odds to Win the Competition: $41