Parramatta Eels Pursue Payne Haas with “Concrete” Interest, Move Ahead of Rival Clubs
Parramatta, June 30, 2025 — The Parramatta Eels have reportedly made a bold mid-season move to secure powerhouse prop forward Payne Haas from the Brisbane Broncos, with club insiders confirming there is “concrete interest” and that they are ahead of rival clubs in the race to land the star enforcer.
Eels Targeting a Big-Game Front-Row Bolt
Payne Haas, 26, is widely considered one of the NRL’s most dominant prop forwards. Known for his explosive running and high tackle counts, Haas has been a cornerstone in Brisbane’s forward pack since electrifying his debut, earning RLPA Player of the Month in early 2025 and consistently making headlines for his performances. His powerful metres per game (averaging around 170 run metres and 30 tackles per match) have made him one of the toughest opponents in the competition.
Why Parramatta Are Doubling Down
The Eels’ decision to swoop for Haas is part of a broader strategy to reinforce their spine following several key departures and injuries. With veteran forwards like Reagan Campbell‑Gillard on the move and fresh signings such as Tallyn Da Silva and Jack de Belin set for late-season introductions, head coach Jason Ryles is seeking to build a front-row core capable of matching the best in the NRL. Hauling in Haas would immediately boost Parramatta’s forward pack with elite quality, size, and aggression.
Ahead of the Pack
Insider reports suggest the Eels have already sounded out Haas’s management and are preparing an offer that places them ahead of Melbourne, Sydney, and even Broncos’ internal retention plans. While Haas is contracted through 2026, circumstances at Brisbane—rumours of frustration over game time depth and a stack of new props coming through—could open the door for an early release.
Mark O’Neill, Parramatta’s General Manager of Football, is said to be personally leading the negotiations, and club sources believe Haas is “intrigued” by the opportunity to join a spine-starved Eels side that projects finals representation next year.
Coach Ryles Courts Haas
“It’s no secret we’re looking to strengthen the packet,” Ryles told reporters this week. “Payne has shown he can change games in the middle. If we can bring him in, he’ll help accelerate our rebuild at prop.”
Sources close to the Broncos are refusing to rule out a mid-season departure; while coach Kevin Walters values depth, there is acknowledgement that allowing Haas to move could aid in fresh salary-cap flexibility and squad balance.
Timeframe & Looming Deadline
Reports indicate the Eels want to finalise the deal ahead of the mid-season transfer deadline, which falls at the end of July, so Haas can be registered in time for finals eligibility. A move before the Broncos’ bye week could provide him with two weeks to integrate into backward group sessions and learn Parsons’ systems.
Final Take
Securing Payne Haas would represent one of Parramatta’s most significant signings in years—a powerful statement of intent as the club climbs back into the top echelon of the NRL. With Ryles building around a young, energetic spine, the addition of a seasoned, uncompromising prop like Haas could be the missing piece needed to elevate the Eels to genuine premiership contenders.
Keep your eyes on Parramatta—this deal has the potential to reshape the engine room of their season, and perhaps the entire power structure of the NRL.
