Parramatta looked to be in for a rotten year when Mitch Moses went down with another long-term injury.
The Eels had struggled to get off the mark under rookie head coach Jason Ryles, but they undoubtedly clicked into gear the longer the year went on and when Moses finally returned for a sustained run they surged up the ladder.
Parra will be hoping the late season momentum they generated can be carried over into 2026 as they look to establish themselves as a finals side once again.
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Parramatta Eels predicted team list for Round 1
1. Isaiah Iongi
2. Zac Lomax
3. Will Penisini
4. Sean Russell
5. Josh Addo-Carr
6. Jonah Pezet
7. Mitchell Moses
8. J'maine Hopgood
9. Ryley Smith
10. Junior Paulo
11. Kitione Kautoga
12. Jack Williams
13. Jack de Belin
14. Tallyn Da Silva
15. Dylan Walker
16. Sam Tuivaiti
17. Kelma Tuilagi
Eels latest team news ahead of Round 1
Isaiah Iongi had an impressive maiden campaign at Parramatta following his arrival from Penrith and made the fullback spot his own following Clint Gutherson's exit.
Zac Lomax arrived at the Eels declaring he would play in the centres, however he soon slotted in on the wing and will stay there despite rumours linking him to an early exit for R360. Josh Addo-Carr will line up on the opposite flank.
Will Penisini and Sean Russell are expected to start in the centres.
Jordan Samrani looms as the first replacement in the backline as Bailey Simonsson also tries to work his way back into contention following a troubled year at the club.
Dylan Brown inked a mammoth deal to join Newcastle early during the 2025 campaign and then experienced a disappointing final term with the Eels.
Joash Papali'i was set to get the first crack at five-eighth, although Jonah Pezet's arrival has pushed him down the pecking order, while Dean Hawkins has left the club to head to England.
J'maine Hopgood was moved from lock to prop midway through the campaign and settled into the new position well. He could stay there and be joined up front by Junior Paulo.
Ryley Smith emerged as the club's first-choice hooker, although he will be pressured for his spot by Tallyn Da Silva, who joined from the Wests Tigers towards the end of the 2025 season.
Jack Williams started the campaign at prop, but found better success as a backrower. Kitione Kautoga could line up on the other edge.
Dylan Walker was a big success story following his arrival from New Zealand and he will likely compete with fellow veteran Jack be Belin for the No.13 jersey.
Sam Tuivaiti made his NRL debut last season and was a regular member of the 17 before injury struck. The young forward is set to grab a place on the bench.
Kelma Tuilagi will be fighting for a starting role but may have to settle for a spot on the pine. Charlie Guymer, Luca Moretti and Matt Doorey will also be right in the mix for places in the side.
Bryce Cartwright and Joe Ofahengaue were released during the season, while Shaun Lane announced his retirement as Ryles switched his focus towards developing the next crop of young forwards.
Ryan Matterson's future is uncertain as he returned to the club following a failed short-term stint in the Super League.
Meanwhile, Brendan Hands has been released from his contract to head back to France after a successful loan spell.