Despite being sacked two years ago by the Canterbury Bulldogs for the same issue, there is a way for Addo-Carr to remain at the Parramatta Eels after an alleged positive drug test.
The Eels winger returned a positive test for cocaine on Friday morning and checked into a mental health facility on the Central Coast.
Addo-Carr, who was hopeful to take part in Kevin Walters' World Cup side, has no way to contact anyone after meeting with doctors and psychologists, The Daily Telegraph reports.
There is speculation the Eels could sack Addo-Carr, the same decision the Bulldogs made in 2024, although there was behind-the-scenes chaos regarding a lack of transparency from 'The Foxx'.
A faction from the Eels is pushing for the 31-year-old to receive a stay of execution, as the winger has pleaded for his stay.
Parramatta are aware of Addo-Carr's mental state and are also worried about his welfare, while they wait for the results of the secondary fluid sample, with results from that test to come back next month.
The winger's management spoke to DT, stating their case for why Addo-Carr should remain in the NRL despite the alleged positive drug test.
“Josh is not perfect, and he has made mistakes,” his management stated.
“But those mistakes should not erase the years he has spent giving his time to children and communities, proudly representing his culture, and bringing excitement and new supporters to rugby league.
“His contribution to the community and the game is genuine, substantial and worthy of recognition.
“Josh is currently in great hands and receiving professional care and support at the rehabilitation centre.
“His health, wellbeing and recovery remain the immediate priority.”
Parramatta had a dialogue with their winger's management discussing his mental health woes and whether that played a role in the substance-related misstep.
Consequences of Addo-Carr's actions began with JAC Motors, the automobile and commercial vehicle manufacturer, dumping the ambassador at the beginning of this week.
This is likely to fuel some of the Eels' sponsors to encourage the club to sack Addo-Carr.
There are figures at the club also recognising Addo-Carr's actions in the community, as he is nominated for the Ken Stephen Medal and selection in this year's NRL Community Team of the Year.
“We know how much Josh loves the Parramatta Eels,” his management said.
“He greatly values his relationship with Jason Ryles (Eels coach), his teammates and everyone at the club.
“Josh would love nothing more than to continue his recovery, earn back the trust of those around him and have the opportunity to play for Parramatta again next season.”
The NRL, given Addo-Carr's second cocaine breach, can hand out a 12-match suspension as part of its Illicit and Hazardous Drugs policy.
With Addo-Carr having only the 2027 season remaining on his contract, it would leave the second half of the season to make a legitimate case for his services on a team in 2028.
Parramatta finished 13th this season and are set to add Jarome Luai and Jaydn Su'A in 2027, and potentially Spencer Leniu after his finals campaign with the Roosters concludes.
Addo-Carr has played 45 games for the Eels in 2025 and 2026 combined, scoring 27 tries, providing his services on the wing and at fullback in a couple of games near the end of the season.
