The Official Club Announcement
The Parramatta Eels are pleased to announce the signing of experienced NRL outside back Brian Kelly on a two-year deal, securing his services until the end of the 2027 NRL season.
Kelly brings a wealth of experience to Parramatta, having played 190 NRL games across his career. A talented ball-runner, the versatile back adds valuable depth and strike to the Eels’ backline.
Parramatta Eels General Manager of Football Mark O’Neill welcomed Kelly to the club.
“We had an opportunity to strengthen our outside backs which was a positional area of need, and Brian certainly fits that need very well for us.
Jason and the coaching staff are looking forward to working with Brian who adds a greater attacking dimension to our game.
With nearly 200 NRL games to his name, Brian’s experience will be an added benefit the broader squad,” added O’Neill.
Kelly has proudly worn the jerseys of Country NSW, the Prime Minister’s XIII, and the Indigenous All Stars. A proud Aboriginal Bundjalung man, Kelly has also made a meaningful impact beyond football. He has been actively involved in programs that support and mentor Indigenous youth, helping to foster personal growth, cultural pride, and community empowerment.
Replies
Good signing. He's got talent and experience. Much needed.
💯
👍 agree
The main thing about this signing is experience. That is the plus. Other than that i am not too thrilled. Granted not too much on the market but at the same time Taulagi was there for the taking, as could have been Arthars.
If we got him as a back-up to compete, that is shrewed business. Though i wonder if Russell, since signing with Perth, misses out for Kelly?
Don't see why he should though. Pezet has already signed for Brisbane and he ain't missing out. He is first can off the rank.
The only 'future is now' drop was Brown and, in hindsight, that was probably (really) because he was playing shit.
If Kelly can learn Ryles' defending system and apply it then this signing should be OK.
Well competition makes perfect. Never a mistake to add competition. Even for those on the cusp like Richie, Nanva, Alamaddeine to do better.
I think russell misses out. Did the same with dylan brown.
I think Bailey Simmonson will be the one without a chair when the music stops
Not so sure about that. Bailey moves to right wing, Kelly comes in at left center, and Russell rides the pine. Simmo's been pretty injury plagued, so Russell will come in sooner than we think.
I think we'll see Richy P come in earlier in the season too, he also struggles to make it through a full season. Just don't know where he plays if Kelly plays left center.
Last year Simonsson had the shits because he wasn't getting picked (behind Russell). I'm not sure why all of a sudden he's bolted to the front. In any case it's down to those two for the one spot, wait and see who gets it
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