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📻 IMPORTANT AUCKLAND UPDATE 📻
Parramatta sign replacement for Zac Lomax
Jasper Bruce, AAP • January 5th, 2026 2:53 pm
Brian Kelly | Photo: AAP
Brian Kelly is poised to replace Zac Lomax in Parramatta's backline after being released by Gold Coast to sign a two-year deal at the Eels.
Attacking livewire Kelly had been linked with the Eels in recent weeks before both clubs made the immediate move official on Monday morning.
The centre looks set to slot into the starting side for Jason Ryles' second season as coach following Lomax's release only one season into a four-year deal.
NSW representative Lomax had been linked with breakaway rugby competition R360 before its postponement plunged his future into limbo late last year.
Kelly will be the beneficiary of Lomax's misfortune, though, set to join Josh Addo-Carr and Will Penisini as a walk-up starter in the outside backs.
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Bailey Simonsson, Jordan Samrani and Joash Papalii are among other options as the Eels look to build on improvements showcased in 2025.
"We had an opportunity to strengthen our outside backs which was a positional area of need, and Brian certainly fits that need very well for us," said Eels football boss Mark O'Neill.
"Jason and the coaching staff are looking forward to working with Brian who adds a greater attacking dimension to our game."
Kelly had been contracted with the Titans for 2026 but exits as the long-time strugglers reconfigure under rookie coach Josh Hannay.
The 29-year-old made his NRL debut at Manly in 2017, though has played 143 of his 190 NRL games for the Titans, whom he joined in 2019.
