The Parramatta Eels have locked in one of their brightest young prospects, with Ryley Smith earning a Top 30 upgrade for 2026 and signing a contract extension that will keep him at the club until the end of the 2027 season.
Smith, who made his NRL debut in Round 1 this year, has become a mainstay in the Eels’ forward rotation thanks to his sharp dummy-half play and defensive steel. It’s been a meteoric rise for the 22-year-old, who started the year without a full-time contract.
Parramatta General Manager of Football Mark O’Neill lauded Smith’s transformation into a key contributor.
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“Ryley has been exceptional this season, particularly when you consider he started the year as a train-and-trialist and has worked his way into being a regular member of the team,” O’Neill said.
“His work ethic is unbelievable, and it shows what can be achieved when you are as committed as what Ryley is to the club and his own development.”
Reward for persistence and potential
After impressing during pre-season and the club’s trial games, Smith forced his way into the Eels' NRL side and hasn’t looked back.
His elevation is another sign the club is intent on rebuilding around its emerging talent.
The Eels have faced plenty of pressure in 2024, but Smith’s continued development offers a bright spot and now a long-term investment.