Parramatta Eels lock forward Dylan Walker has officially announced his departure from the club, set to join the Leeds Rhinos in the English Super League on a three-year deal commencing after the 2026 season.
Having been with the Eels since 2025, Walker's stint in Western Sydney will conclude after two seasons, after which he will link up with the Rhinos, where he is expected to conclude his professional career.
His contract with former Eels coach Brad Arthur's team is set to run until the end of 2029; by the close of the season, he will be celebrating his 35th birthday.
"We are really pleased to have been able to sign a player of Dylan's experience and quality. He has enjoyed success throughout his career and won the NRL Grand Final in 2014 with South Sydney, and having spoken to Dylan at length he is so excited to pull on the Rhinos jersey," said Ian Blease, the club's sporting director.
"He has got a great work ethic, and skills as we have seen with how he has transitioned from multiple backs positions into the forward pack and I know he will fit in well with the group for next season that we are building."
"As a club we have had a real focus on retaining the best young players whilst adding in to the group at an elite level when the opportunity arises and is required," he added.
Versatile in playing lock, halves, or centre positions, Walker has primarily played as a lock forward in recent years. He boasts an impressive 268 NRL games with teams like the South Sydney Rabbitohs, Manly Sea Eagles, New Zealand Warriors, and the Eels.
Walker may fall just short of 300 games in the Australian league but is anticipated to surpass 350 professional matches during his time in England.
"Leeds is a massive club and it's a new home. I'm really excited about the new challenge ahead and the experience that follows. I'm a competitor at the end of the day and love to win. Signing with Leeds is a privilege and I'm super excited to rip in and get amongst the boys, staff and fans," he expressed regarding his transition overseas.