"I got my opportunity": Dean Hawkins Eyes Permanent Halves Role for 2026

Originally signed by the Parramatta Eels as a secondary playmaker, Dean Hawkins has unexpectedly emerged as a strong candidate to partner Mitchell Moses in the halves for the upcoming 2026 NRL season.

With the decision still pending on Dylan Brown's replacement in the five-eighth position, Eels coach Jason Ryles confirmed that Hawkins will be seriously considered after he has been partnering Moses in recent matches.

"There's an opportunity there and we'll have a few players there," Ryles stated on Sunday night, following the Eels' second victory in three weeks.

"There might be one or two smokeys that jump out as well, but it's good having competition for spots."

Ryles also noted, "I think he's genuinely improved as a footy player, which is good feedback for us and good for him as well."

Previously with the South Sydney Rabbitohs, where he mainly played in the NSW Cup, Hawkins has significantly elevated his performance this season. Remarkably, he has only played 26 matches in his first-grade career despite being 26 years old.