Eels ‘Give Jason Ryles His Wish’ as Deal Struck for Broncos Star
Parramatta, July 13, 2025 — Parramatta Eels have made a thunderous statement in the NRL transfer market, securing the signature of Brisbane Broncos powerhouse Payne Haas in a blockbuster deal said to be worth over $1.2 million per season.
The New South Wales and Australian international has long been one of the most coveted forwards in rugby league, and now, new Eels coach Jason Ryles has landed his No. 1 target as the club ushers in a new era under his leadership.
According to club insiders, Haas agreed to a four-year contract late Friday night after weeks of intense negotiations between Parramatta and Brisbane. The Eels are believed to have tabled a lucrative offer that not only matched Haas’ financial demands but also promised him a key leadership role in Ryles’ ambitious rebuild of the club.
“A Generational Talent”
Ryles, who took over the Eels earlier this year after stints as an assistant coach with the Sydney Roosters and Melbourne Storm, had made no secret of his desire to reshape the Eels’ forward pack around a dominant enforcer. Haas, who turns 26 later this year, fits that mould perfectly.
“Payne is a generational talent,” said Ryles in a statement released by the club. “He brings size, mobility, work rate, and an incredible engine. But above all, he brings leadership and experience at the highest level. Signing him is a massive step in the direction we want to go.”
The Eels have struggled to reach the heights of their 2022 Grand Final appearance in recent years, with fans growing frustrated by inconsistency and a lack of aggression in the middle of the park. The acquisition of Haas is expected to go a long way in addressing those concerns.
Deal Sends Shockwaves Through the League
The move has stunned many in the NRL, particularly given Brisbane’s repeated insistence that Haas was “untouchable.” However, with salary cap pressures mounting and other rising stars demanding upgrades, the Broncos reluctantly agreed to let their star prop go—provided the price was right.
Reports suggest the Eels will pay a transfer fee to the Broncos in the range of $500,000 to secure Haas’ immediate release, with the player set to join the club before the end of the 2025 season.
Broncos head coach Kevin Walters admitted the decision was difficult: “Payne’s been a massive part of our club for a long time. We’re disappointed to see him go, but this was a deal that worked for both parties. We wish him the very best.”
Eels Fans Rejoice
The signing has electrified the Eels faithful, with social media buzzing and ticket sales reportedly surging in the hours following the announcement.
“Payne Haas in blue and gold? That’s a dream come true,” wrote one fan on X (formerly Twitter). “Jason Ryles is not messing around!”
As the NRL season rolls on, all eyes will now be on how quickly Haas can make an impact in his new colours—and whether this high-profile coup will be the spark the Eels need to return to premiership contention.
