The Parramatta Eels have signed former Canberra Raiders and Newcastle Knights Winger James Schiller to a two-year deal effective immediately until the end of the 2028 season. Schiller has played 33 NRL games, scoring 18 tries across five seasons. Schiller has the ability to play both Centre and Wing, possessing decent speed and high ball ability. Defensively is where he lets himself down.
There were rumours he was set to sign with the Wests Tigers, however Schiller is on his way to Western Sydney, just with the Blue & Gold. Schiller as a depth signing is a fair signing. He offers versatility as he has experience at Centre. He has some speed, is 26 next year so he is of a decent age and has some NRL experience to be a plug and play replacement. Now if JAC is gone immediately, can Schiller win a starting Wing spot over Simonsson? I could see why not, if not he will be a fine Winger to have in NSW Cup, called upon for an emergency. Even being on the 6 man bench.
With juniors such as Cyrus Bloomfield, Samuela Sorovi and even Liam Martin still a year or two off, Schiller is fine back-up bridge to have. Can Schiller be a diamond in the rough looking for a chance to shine as an NRL starter? Sure. We saw the job Ryles did with Kelly this year in making him a stand out.
https://www.parraeels.com.au/news/2026/11/12/james-schiller-join-the-eels/
Replies
Does the club really think Simonsson/Kelly/Schiller is good enough? If they do then we have serious problems still on a management level
Correct!
It's not. But problem is nothing is out there either. As to why JAC for 27' I would have preferred.
My gut feel is Schiller will go alright. He's stuck behind a couple decent wingers/centres at the Knights. Given the opportunity and more game time, he may well be a starting winger at some point throughout the season. Big athletic body with some speed. Let's see...