Parramatta open talks with Junior Paulo over extension

Parramatta Eels are set to extend Prop Forward and Vice-Captain Junior Paulo past 2026. The 32 year old has played 263 NRL games, 208 for Parramatta. A new deal in 2027 can lead him to passing 300 NRL games.

I am surprised but also in hindsight it makes sense. Paulo had a great year, though statistically it was nowhere near his best, his influence was evident. His leadership and the resepect he garners is imperative to this squad. If it is one year he will 34 a the end of the deal. His is slowing down but it could be, if we add Keaon Koloamatangi especially, is move Paulo into that impact bench role. He can play a part in that role for sure.

I went into 2025 thinking like some, I understand why Paulo stayed over RCG, though he might give it a miss this year or next. But mid way through this year i saw that Paulo was playing well enough to keep going.

I just wonder how it all fits with the likes of Paulo, KK, Hopgood, De Belin, Tuivaiti, Walker and Moretti to fit them all in. Particularly since Ryles likes to play two Hookers, though also Ryles seemed wanting to get younger but have Paulo and de Belin possibly in 2027 being 33 and 36 in the middle.

Anyway i do not see him going anywhere, other than SL, so a deal should be able to be done reletively easily.

https://www.zerotackle.com/nrl-club-opens-talks-with-paulo-as-samoan-skipper-outlines-future-plans-229341/

"Yep, I'd much rather Paulo on our side than in the opposition. He had one of his best seasons for many years this year and is still strong and skilful. As you say, I can see Junior in a mentoring role for the younger players."

"Add to that the long list of rookies at the club, many of which were thrown into NRL last season. It's not quite Dad's Army, but the club does need to ensure that we continue to have the right mix of experience and youth."

"Yep people so focused on just performances rather than how good of a role model he is for Polynesian boys which make up more percentage of nrl players each year"

Replies

- - - HKF > Blue Eel December 1, 2025 at 7:03pm
      
      That's probably spot on, $500-$600k is a bit of wishful thinking on my part.
    - Randy Handlinger > Blue Eel December 1, 2025 at 8:55pm
      
      If he signs for one cent less than $650 his agent should go get a job at Maccas
shane December 1, 2025 at 4:44pm

1 yr at the most and 400K max.Every year when his cantract is up for renewal he plays well, after signing a new 1 for2 or more yrs he doesn't perform until the yr before renewal. last contract signed for 4yrs at 950 K and took untill this yr to play, been a passenger the rest of the time and wasn't worth 200k.
GM December 1, 2025 at 5:24pm

That's well and good, a little disheartening wr have added FA in regards to new players
- Perpetual Motion > GM December 1, 2025 at 11:18pm
  
  We have 3 quality young props training in the FG preseason. Prefer to keep them then pay big money to an outsider. We dont have a great history with high paid signings. Need to spend the money on some quality backs.
Eli Stephens December 1, 2025 at 6:16pm

As long as it's at a discount no issues, he's a cornerstone of the club
Yehez December 1, 2025 at 6:18pm

One more season in 2027 for Junioir at less than 500 I think would be awesome.
Muttman December 1, 2025 at 8:06pm

Jnr has been the bedrock of our pack for years now. For the love of God can we please get his long term replacement sorted asap. PLEASE!!!
- Randy Handlinger > Muttman December 2, 2025 at 6:43am
  
  computer says no
  
  I am starting to think Margo Kneel is not very good at this whole "signing players" thingy
  - Muttman > Randy Handlinger December 2, 2025 at 9:39am
    
    lol