Nathan Smith previews the Parramatta Eels’ season for 2025.
Season Preview
The Eels will be looking for one big thing in 2025: improvement.
Last season, they were a whisker away from finishing last — a dramatic fall from grace after their 2022 Grand Final appearance. It was a disastrous campaign that ultimately cost former coach Brad Arthur his job.
Now, the Eels enter 2025 with a sense of renewal. Jason Ryles, a highly touted assistant under Trent Robinson and Craig Bellamy, takes on the daunting task of steering them back to contention. Long-time stalwart Clint Gutherson is gone, replaced by promising Panthers junior Isaiah Iongi. Zac Lomax and Josh Addo-Carr inject pace and strike power into the backline, while workhorse Jack Williams looks set to replace the departing Regan Campbell-Gillard in the forward pack.
So, how do these changes impact the Eels’ prospects? Their backline appears stronger than it has been in years, though Iongi remains an unknown at fullback. Meanwhile, the forward pack has slimmed down to fit the modern game, moving away from the old-school “bash ‘em through the middle” approach once spearheaded by Campbell-Gillard and Junior Paulo. The shift in strategy is clear.
The Eels have a manageable start to the season despite a tough Round 1 clash with the Storm. Their performance in the opening 10 rounds will likely set the tone for the year. A vast improvement on 2024 is expected, but can they return to finals contention? That may well depend on the fitness of Mitch Moses. If he stays on the field, the Eels have every chance of making the eight — and perhaps even surprising a few doubters along the way.
Best Signing
Zac Lomax
Embed from Getty ImagesZac Lomax is unquestionably the Eels’ biggest signing of the year. One of the game’s standout wingers in 2024, he earned selection for both the NSW Blues and Australian Kangaroos. A newfound discipline saw him cut out the reckless offloads, replacing them with patience and precision in attack.
Lomax will bring the Eels hard carries out of the backfield and a potent aerial threat in attack. Additionally, his arrival eases the pressure on Mitch Moses’ goal-kicking, with Lomax set to take over the duties. His versatility and consistency make him an invaluable addition — without question, the Eels’ best and most impactful signing for 2025.
Key Player
Mitch Moses
Embed from Getty ImagesNewly anointed captain Mitchell Moses is the Eels’ key player. Last season proved just how vital he is to the team — his injury all but derailed their campaign. Yet, while his club season was plagued by setbacks, his representative career soared. Moses played a pivotal role in NSW’s State of Origin triumph and guided the Kangaroos to a Pacific Championship victory.
Now, as the leader of the Eels, their success will hinge on him. If he stays fit, the team’s fortunes could take a dramatic turn for the better.
Player to Watch
Jack Williams
Embed from Getty ImagesJack Williams may not be a household name, but 2025 could be one of his best seasons yet. Despite flying under the radar, he has been a consistent big-minute player for the Cronulla Sharks in recent years. His addition to the Eels’ leadership group — despite being a new arrival — raised a few eyebrows, but it speaks volumes about his work ethic and commitment.
Big, mobile, and relentless, Williams has the tools to make an impact. Don’t be surprised if he earns a starting spot in the front row.
