The Parramatta Eels have reaffirmed their commitment to developing elite talent through their Pathways system, announcing the contract extensions of back-rowers William Latu and Jezaiah Funa-luta.
Both players have signed upgraded deals that will see them remain at the club through the end of the 2027 season. Currently on development contracts until 2026, Latu and Funa-luta will be elevated to the club’s Top 30 NRL squad in 2027—an important milestone in their professional careers and a testament to the Eels’ thriving junior development system.
Funa-luta has enjoyed a standout 2025 season so far, playing a key role in the Eels’ SG Ball Cup campaign and helping guide the side to the Grand Final earlier this year. His performances earned him a call-up to the Jersey Flegg team.
William Latu has taken the next step in his development, playing regularly in the NSW Cup team this season. The powerful back-rower has been part of the Parramatta system for several years and, like Funa-luta, his journey through the club’s junior ranks underscores the strength of the Parramatta Eels’ development pathways
Parramatta Eels GM Football Mark O'Neill said, "Both William and Jezaiah have shown exceptional growth in their game and commitment to the club. They represent the best of what our development system aims to achieve—young players who come through our club, earn their stripes, and are rewarded with opportunities to take the next step to NRL or NRLW level."
Replies
Good to see the club being proactive in regards to our juniors. If the boys continue to show the required growth into next season the club should continue to be proactive and extend their top 30 contracts before they hit the open market on November 1st 2026.
Yes HKF, we are acting fast with our juniors and getting them into our future plans but extending them til 2027 gives us and them time to develop.
Our current top 30 and dev deal is very confusing lol. Jez and Latu apparently on dev deals this year.
From my understanding our top 30 has 29 people:
And 6 dev deals:
So some upgrades have clearly happened as Latu and Jez not listed. Plus Samrani was train and trial deal.
It's fantastic how the coaching stuff is looking afterf our juniors, they must feel if you work hard, you will be rewarded. Ryles is doing a fantastic job, I was hoping this guy got the job, he hadn't disappointed me.
If latu didn't pick up an injury early in the year he would've or I think should've debuted by now
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