The Parramatta Eels' rebuild is well and truly underway, with Jason Ryles' side looking to climb back into the top eight in 2026.
In truth, the Eels were closer than you might expect looking at the ladder from 2025, but the issue was Mitchell Moses spending far too long on the sidelines injured.
Moses may well be the most important individual player to any team anywhere in the competition, and if he stays fit, combined with a handful of new signings for the blue and gold, then there is a very real chance the Eels climb the ladder in 2026.
Selection questions remain for the blue and gold though, particularly in the outside backs and forward pack, with Ryles already creating a reputation for not holding back if he believes change is needed.
The squad already looks very different from the one that started 2025 with a number of players not making the cut in Ryles' future vision for the Eels.
Here are the key questions for the Eels heading into 2026.
What role will Jack Williams play?
Jack Williams was one of the better players for the blue and gold throughout the 2025 campaign following his move across Sydney from the Cronulla Sharks.
Once tipped as the long-term replacement in the Shire at lock for Paul Gallen, he has taken some time to hit his straps at first-grade level.
Whether at prop or the second-row, he will certainly have a role in Parramatta's first-grade side.
With J'maine Hopgood and Junior Paulo likely to form the front-row, it could well be that he plays on the edge, but it's up in the air exactly what Williams does in 2026.
“What will now be intriguing is whether he or Dylan Brown starts at lock, with the other to come from the bench.”
Can’t see Brown suiting up at lock for the Eels.