LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
The Parramatta Eels have indicated that Zac Lomax will remain with the team for the 2026 NRL season.
Lomax, a winger who joined the Eels from the St George Illawarra Dragons at the end of 2024 on a long-term deal, has recently faced speculation about leaving the club. This comes despite his prior recognition as an Origin and Kangaroos player, before he had to withdraw from the Ashes tour due to injury.
As one of the most dynamic wingers in the league, Lomax was among the first players connected to the Saudi Arabian-backed R360 competition, which has reportedly offered NRL players salaries exceeding $2 million. This financial figure far surpasses what the NRL can currently provide under its salary cap and distribution guidelines, leading to claims that Lomax may have played his final game with the Eels.
However, the club does not share this perspective. Mark O'Neill, the Eels' director of football, confirmed during an appearance on SEN 1170 Radio's Run Home with Joel & Fletch that Lomax remains under contract with the Eels.
"All I'll say is he has an existing contract with us.. He's played great football. He's played in Origin, he is an elite player, he's got a contract with us, mate," O'Neill stated.
While O'Neill has been active this week in signing Jonah Pezet and re-signing Matt Doorey ahead of the November 1 deadline, his remarks suggest that Lomax's future with the team is secure.