MASSIVE SHOCK: PARRAMATTA EELS WINGER ZAC LOMAX ANNOUNCES IMMEDIATE DEPARTURE AFTER JUST ONE SEASON
Star outside back granted release from four-year deal to pursue non-NRL opportunities, with rugby union and combat sports on the table
In a stunning development, Parramatta Eels star winger Zac Lomax has announced his immediate departure from the club – just one season into a four-year contract he signed in April 2024. The 26-year-old was granted an immediate release in late 2025 to explore opportunities outside the NRL, sending ripples through the rugby league community.
Lomax joined the Eels ahead of the 2025 season with high expectations, having established himself as one of the competition’s most consistent outside backs during his previous tenure at St George Illawarra Dragons. Despite emerging as a key player for Parramatta in his single campaign, honest conversations with head coach Jason Ryles led to the club agreeing to release him to pursue new challenges.
Ryles spoke warmly of Lomax’s decision, stating: “Zac came to me with a clear desire to try something different, and while we’re disappointed to lose him, we respect his honesty and ambition. He’s been a valuable contributor to our squad this season, and we wish him nothing but success in whatever comes next.”
While Lomax has confirmed his intention to step away from NRL, multiple reports link him to lucrative offers from the new rebel rugby union competition, R360, as well as discussions with Western Force about a potential 2026 Super Rugby Pacific deal. In a surprising twist, combat sports have also emerged as a serious consideration, with Lomax revealing he is exploring opportunities in boxing and MMA.
The news comes at a critical time for the Eels, who are now faced with filling a significant void in their backline ahead of the 2026 pre-season. Lomax’s departure marks one of the most unexpected player moves of the off-season, with many fans and pundits questioning the timing of his decision so early into a long-term contract.
Despite the sudden exit, Lomax expressed gratitude to the Eels organisation and its supporters: “Parramatta has been incredible to me this past year, and I’ll always appreciate the faith they showed in signing me. This next chapter is about challenging myself in new ways, and I’m excited to see where it takes me.”
