Jason Ryles Outlines Recruitment Strategy to Boost Eels’ On-Field Power
Parramatta Eels head coach Jason Ryles has lifted the lid on his blueprint to turn around the club’s on-field struggles, revealing that the next phase of recruitment will focus squarely on adding raw physicality and go-forward to the team’s forward pack and backline.
Speaking candidly during a mid-season press conference, Ryles acknowledged that one of the Eels’ major shortcomings in 2025 has been their inability to consistently exit their own half and generate momentum through the middle of the field.
“Our current forward group has plenty of skill and they’re trying to play expansive football,” Ryles said. “But what we’re really lacking is that direct, hard-running edge. We need middle forwards who aren’t afraid to carry the ball straight into the teeth of the defence and win the contact. That’s the type of presence we’ve been missing, and it’s hurting our ability to control territory and win the ruck.”
The Eels have suffered a mixed start to the 2025 campaign, often struggling to generate second-phase play or dominate field position. Ryles admitted that the club’s inability to get on the front foot has left the backline starved of opportunities and under pressure to perform in compromised field positions.
“That sort of pressure builds up across 80 minutes. You find yourself starting sets from deep in your own 10 or 20 metre line and you can’t get the backs involved creatively. That’s not sustainable,” he said.
Ryles confirmed that the recruitment team has already identified several targets for 2026 and beyond, with an emphasis on acquiring a talented centre and “two or three powerful middle forwards” capable of bending the defensive line.
“We’re looking for players who bring size, aggression, and consistency in yardage. It’s not just about big names; it’s about the right fit. We want guys who are hungry, who run hard and don’t overplay their hand. When you add that sort of edge to your pack, everything else starts to click.”
Though Ryles didn’t name specific targets, speculation is already swirling around a number of off-contract enforcers in both the NRL and Super League. The Eels are reportedly monitoring young Brisbane prop Xavier Willison and Leeds Rhinos powerhouse Mikolaj Oledzki, among others.
Meanwhile, Ryles also stressed the need for an “impact centre” — a strike weapon who can break the line, attract multiple defenders, and open up space for Parramatta’s speedsters on the flanks.
“We need a centre who can challenge defences one-on-one. Too often this year, we’ve been predictable and easy to contain out wide. A dynamic centre gives us a new dimension.”
The Eels boss, who took charge at the start of the season, reiterated that while results have been below expectations, the club remains committed to a long-term vision.
“We’re building something here. It’s going to take time, but we know what’s missing and we’re not sitting on our hands.”
With a crucial recruitment window approaching, Eels fans will be watching closely to see if Ryles can deliver the physical reinforcements needed to spark a blue-and-gold resurgence.
