The Parramatta Eels are under heavy scrutiny from their own supporters after reports emerged that Jonah Pezet, one of the NRL’s most promising young playmakers, is set to join the club on a one-year deal — only to leave for the Brisbane Broncos in 2027. What should have been a major coup for coach Jason Ryles and his rebuilding project has instead sparked confusion, criticism, and debate among fans and pundits alike.
Pezet, 22, has long been regarded as one of the most talented up-and-coming halves in the NRL. Having shown flashes of brilliance across 18 games for the Melbourne Storm, the youngster found himself stuck behind the superstar pairing of Cameron Munster and Jahrome Hughes, limiting his opportunities to shine. Now, after triggering a clause allowing him to leave Melbourne, Pezet’s next move has turned into one of the biggest talking points in rugby league.
According to reports from The Daily Telegraph, the Eels are expected to sign Pezet for the 2026 season, but the deal includes a pre-arranged switch to the Brisbane Broncos the following year. The plan would see Pezet serve as a stopgap solution for Parramatta before joining Brisbane as the long-term successor to veteran halves Adam Reynolds and Ben Hunt, both of whom are nearing retirement.
The criticism is particularly sharp given the promising youth already within Parramatta’s ranks. Rising fullback Isaiah Iongi and young hookers Ryley Smith and Tallyn Da Silva have given fans reason for optimism, while Mitchell Moses and Zac Lomax add star power and experience.
However, not everyone views the move as a mistake. SEN host Jimmy Smith argued that the deal could actually benefit both clubs. “From Parramatta’s point of view, it gives them a real shot at the top eight next year,” Smith said. “And for Brisbane, Pezet is the perfect foil for Ezra Mam and Reece Walsh — a young, elite spine that can dominate for years.”
Fellow journalist Michael Carayannis also pointed out that Pezet could thrive alongside Moses, learning from one of the NRL’s best playmakers before stepping into a starring role in Brisbane.
For now, though, the Eels’ faithful remain unconvinced. What was meant to be a smart short-term solution may have only deepened the frustration of fans desperate for long-term stability and a clear direction under Ryles. Whether this gamble pays off — or backfires spectacularly — could define Parramatta’s 2026 campaign.
