Eels Blogs

Following the signing of TDS, I believe the club’s next priority should be strengthening the forward pack by targeting 1–2 middles, along with a reliable, NRL-ready back-rower.

While it's unlikely that one of the elite-tier forwards will become available, it's worth noting that last year saw players like Terrell May, James Fisher-Harris, and Addin Fonua-Blake unexpectedly hit the market — a reminder that opportunities can arise.

That said, in the event that no top-tier forwards become available, I’ve compiled a list of players who may soon be due for both an upgrade in salary and a more prominent role at a new club.

Front-Row Forwards:

Jackson Ford:

Jackson Ford has been a consistent and reliable performer for the Warriors over the past two seasons. While he primarily features as a bench forward, he consistently plays upwards of 40 minutes per game.

After watching him closely this season, he appears to fit a similar mould to Jack Williams: not the flashiest player on the park, but someone who delivers a dependable 7/10 performance each week. He is from the Dragons system, and may be looking for a move back to Australia. I think the opportunity to start, and move back to Australia could defintely draw him back to the club. Additionally, the Warriors have a surplus of front-row forwards, with many young-stars arising this season; Leka, Laban, Demetric Vaumiga. Given the depth they've built in this area, the club may soon be forced to offload one or two established players to make room for these rising talents and manage their roster and cap space accordingly.

Harry Hayes:

Harry Hayes has been a very solid performer for the Bulldogs this season, averaging over 100 running metres, and boasting a tackle efficiency rate of 92%. He is the perfect mould for the new generation of forwards, and had an especially impressive performance against us a few weeks back. With forwards such as Leo Thompson arriving to the club, along with Josh Curran, Sam Hughes, Bailey Hayward, Sulaka-Fifita & the emegence of Jack Todd and Jack Underhill, Harry may well be looking for increased responsbility, which the Eels can offer.

Tui Kamikamica:

Tui Kamikamica was reportedly offered to rival clubs earlier in the year. While he is having a season below his standards, he would not break the bank and can provide much needed experience in the Eels forward pack. He can prove a very valuable bench piece, and may be enticed by the opportunity to work with his former assistant, Ryles.

Ata Mariota/Trey Mooney:

With Josh Papaii departing the Raiders next season, both Ata Mariota & Trey Mooney are believed to be front-runners to fill the void. Both players have proved to be of NRL Standard in recent times, and with their young age, room for even further improvement. Should one of them miss out on securing a regular starting role, I believe the Eels would be well-positioned to pursue the "odd man out" — particularly if they can offer a more defined role and greater opportunity for career progression.

Back-Row Forwards:

Jaydn Sua:

While it remains highly unlikely, the Dragons will head into next season with a surplus of emerging back-row talent. This group includes Dylan Egan, Toby Couchman, and Jacob Halagahu. Both Egan and Couchman have been among the club’s standout performers in what’s been a challenging season, while Halagahu continues to cement his status as one of the country’s most promising juniors — a reputation further enhanced by his recent standout performance in the Under 19s State of Origin. Given the quality and potential of these young forwards, the Dragons may soon be faced with a difficult decision: move on from a senior leader in the pack to make room for the next generation.

David Fifita:

One name that will undoubtedly divide opinion is David Fifita — but he absolutely warrants consideration. While 2025 has been a season to forget for him, the raw talent and physical upside remain undeniable. At the Titans, it's not uncommon for players to underperform, whether due to cultural issues or the more laid-back environment on the Gold Coast. A change of scenery could be exactly what Fifita needs to reignite his career. For the right price, he is most defintely worth the gamble. Just imagine him running off Mitch Moses... the thought alone should give opposition defensive coaches nightmares.

Ideal 2026 Lineup:

1. Iongi

2. Bailey

3. Will/Sean

4. Lomax

5. JAC

6. Joash

7. Mitch

8. Jack Williams

9. TDS

10. Jackson Ford/Moretti

11. Kit Kat

12. David Fifita

13. Hopgood

14. Ryley

15. Dylan Walker

16. Junior Paulo

17. Harry Hayes/Sam T