In rugby league, some decisions are made with strategy — and some are made with heart. And at Parramatta, a club longing for unity, identity, and a fresh spirit, coach Jason Ryles has chosen the path of courage, clarity, and culture. The Eels’ latest move — releasing star winger Zac Lomax after just one season — isn’t just a roster decision. It’s a message of love for the club’s future, a promise to its fans, and a heartfelt reset aimed at building something stronger than talent alone: a team that beats as one.
This week, Parramatta confirmed that Lomax had been released from the remaining three years of his deal, freeing him to pursue opportunities in the emerging R360 rugby competition. The 26-year-old winger, who signed a lucrative contract after moving from St George Illawarra, is expected to join the rebel 15-man league, with potential stints in Japan or the United States until the R360 launch in late 2026.
The move has been widely praised, especially by commentators like Cooper Cronk, who hailed it as another decisive cultural call from Ryles. “You’ve got to tip your cap to Jason Ryles,” Cronk said. “He’s made big, brave decisions that might look like steps backward — but they’re absolutely moving Parramatta forward.”
Those decisions include parting ways with long-time Eels pillars Clint Gutherson and Reagan Campbell-Gillard, reshaping the roster to prioritize commitment, unity, and long-term vision. Ryles’ message is clear: talent is essential, but culture is everything.
Lomax, known for his individuality and confidence, was reportedly a Brad Arthur-era signing — and not the ideal fit for Ryles’ new blueprint. Fox League’s Lara Pitt described him as someone who “beats to the sound of his own drum,” a quality that may clash with the tight-knit, preseason-focused structure Ryles demands.
With R360 offering Lomax a reported $1.5 million USD per season plus potential tax advantages, the winger’s rugby future appears secure. But his departure gifts Parramatta new cap flexibility, sparking speculation about potential recruits — including powerhouse forward Nelson Asofa-Solomona, though the club has denied talks.
Parramatta finished 11th last season, but Cronk believes they could rise into the 7th–10th ladder range with a healthy Mitch Moses and continued cultural transformation.
Through all the noise, one truth shines: this is a club choosing heart, unity, and purpose. Parramatta’s future isn’t just being rebuilt — it’s being re-loved. And that, as fans know, is where great seasons begin.
