The Parramatta Eels are pleased to announce that experienced forward Junior Paulo has extended his contract with the Club for a further year until the end of the 2027 season.
One of the most respected players in the NRL, Paulo has been a cornerstone of the Eels' forward pack and leadership group, earning admiration from teammates, coaches and fans alike throughout his distinguished career.
Renowned for his strength, skill and experience, Paulo continues to play a vital role on and off the field, with his influence extending well beyond match day. His leadership, professionalism and commitment to the Club have made him one of the most valued members of the Eels organisation.
Parramatta Eels General Manager of Football Mark O'Neill said retaining a player of Paulo's calibre was a significant outcome for the Club.
"What Junior brings to our team goes far beyond his performances on the field. It is not only his leadership and experience, but he is also an outstanding role model, a family man, mentor to our younger players and someone who helps drive the standards and culture of our club every day." O'Neill said.
"He's incredibly well respected throughout the game and, more importantly, he's well-loved within our organisation. Keeping someone of Junior's character and quality at the Eels is extremely important for our future and we're delighted he'll continue his journey with us.”
Paulo began his rugby league journey with the Cabramatta Two Blues and developed through the Parramatta Eels Academy before making his NRL debut with the Club in 2013. He has become just the 14th player in Parramatta’s history to reach the 200-game milestone in the Blue and Gold jersey, finishing the 2026 season with 280 NRL appearances to his name.
His outstanding career has also included representative honours for New South Wales in State of Origin, and he has proudly captained Toa Samoa on the international stage, most recently leading his nation at the 2026 Rugby League World Cup commencing this week.
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Honestly, he is the biggest question mark of the lot. Should be edge but I can see Ryles putting him middle too. His spot, now Su'A is here, is the most fascinating
Let's see who performs in the off season now. If KitKat performs for Fiji then we will have a conundrum. I'd like to see him come and demand that position but I see a world where Ryles goes Williams to start and KitKat off the bench while Williams rotates to the front row.
Like many I prefer him running wide (and not defending in the middle) but Ryles seems to like him at prop.
He may go back to the bench at astretch if KitKat finally fires.
I think the reason is his leg speed and he can rack up big minutes. With Leniu it might change. But Kautoga being an impact edge and Williams goes into the middle could work well.
We need Williams (and Hopgood) in the middle so that Leniu and Paulo can bludge in defence. The starting edge forwards will be Su'A and Kautoga.
That's the way it should be - competition for spots.
As it stands, you'd think:
NRL: Tuivati, Da Silva, Paulo, KitKat, Su'A, Hopgood, Edwards, Brown, Leniu, Williams.
Cup: Doorey, Smith, Moretti, Guymer, Funa, Pryke, Coinakis, Talagi, Koina, Latu.
That still leaves Lokeni, Petrus, and Jordan Miller who we're apparently keeping. Let alone Popo. And there is ones with question marks like Visconti, Trace Beattie, Tupou who can provide cover.
Looks pretty good for depth in the forwards, shame we can't say the same for the backs.
Anyone the $$ amount spent for 1 year.Hope $500,000 max..
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