After a promising first season under new coach Jason Ryles, the Parramatta Eels appear ready to go all in.
Every move the club has made in recent weeks points to a clear belief that their premiership window is opening in 2026, and they're determined to be ready to seize that opportunity.
Amid reports that breakaway rugby competition R360 has shown serious interest in star winger Zac Lomax, the Eels have drawn a firm line in the sand.
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Rather than entertaining the speculation, powerbrokers at the club have made it clear that Lomax will remain in blue and gold next season, with his current contract running through to the end of 2028.
Parramatta's general manager of football, Mark O'Neill, reaffirmed that stance when speaking to SEN 1170’s The Run Home.
"Well, he’s got an existing contract with us," O’Neill said.
"I know there has been speculation in the press about [R]360, and his name has been linked to a few things here and there.
"But all I’ll say is that he’s got an existing contract with us. He’s played some great football this year. Obviously, he pulled out with an injury for the recent Kangaroos tour, played Origin.
"I think he is an elite player. So yeah, he’s got an existing contract with us."
Parramatta's firm position on Lomax comes as part of a broader push to solidify their roster and maximise their short-term potential.
The Eels recently confirmed the signing of Melbourne Storm playmaker Jonah Pezet on a one-year deal before his planned move to the Broncos, signalling their intent to stack their side with quality starters for the upcoming campaign.
This aggressive approach to recruitment - combined with a refusal to release key players - suggests that the Eels have accelerated their rebuild.
After a season that restored faith under Ryles' leadership, the club clearly believes the foundations are in place for a genuine premiership push next season.