Brian Kelly Extends until 2028

Brian Kelly Extends with Parramatta Eels

The Parramatta Eels are pleased to announce Brian Kelly has extended his contract with the Club, keeping him in Blue and Gold until the end of 2028.

The 2026 season was another significant chapter in Kelly's career, with the talented outside back celebrating his 200-game NRL milestone and earning recognition for his performance as the dual recipient of the Ken Thornett Medal, awarded to the Club's Best and Fairest players.

Parramatta Eels General Manager of Football Mark O'Neill said Kelly's extension was a testament to the value he brings to the team.

"Brian has been a wonderful addition to our team since arriving at the Club. He had a slow start to the season with a few niggling injuries, but his hard work and determination saw him overcome these challenges and play some of his best football. He topped our total running metres and showed tremendous instincts and skill with some of his performances."

"His professional approach set a great example for our younger players, and being recognised as a dual Ken Thornett Medalist this year reflects the respect he has earned throughout the Club. We're pleased that he'll continue his journey with the Eels," said O’Neill

A proud Bundjalung man, Kelly's representative honours include selection for the Indigenous All Stars and Australian Prime Minister’s XIII.

"Wonder why NRL didn't put a minimum value on Verills. Surely he's worth more than $80K and surely plenty of clubs would have wanted to throw their hat in the ring. Very suss how Chooks manages to get away with it, yet again.
As for Blaze, don't mind…"

"Look if the best defensive team could not get him to improve to regular NRL standard ....how can our two bit organisation .....
if at bargain basement rates then yeah or meh ......either way he aint the messiah....just an average NRL player with a…"

Replies

Mr 'BringBackFitzy' Analyst October 20, 2026 at 4:15pm

Ohhh how exciting.
KingGutho October 20, 2026 at 4:25pm

He's very rocks & diamonds player, makes a lot of errors but can come up with some big plays, yardage play has been good as well, needs to cut out the dumb mistakes. 1 year extension is good, until we start signing some more better backs
The Captain October 20, 2026 at 4:43pm

On a pure value basis (performance vs paycheck) Kelly was probably one of our best this last season. Glad that his performances were rewarded and I hope he can keep them up for a few more years. By 2028 I'd really hope he's depth for us anyway.
Longfin Eel October 20, 2026 at 4:46pm

No disresepct to BK, but he's not the game breaker we need. Great to have his experience on board for another couple of seasons, but that doesn't take away from the fact we desperately need the next Radradra.

of 2

This reply was deleted.

Eels Blogs