Jason Ryles Talks Addo-Carr Signing and Parramatta’s Fullback and Captaincy Battles for 2025

New Parramatta Eels coach Jason Ryles has made it clear that he’s ready for a fresh start with the team, focusing on rebuilding after their disappointing 15th-place finish in 2024. Among his key decisions, Ryles addressed the signing of Josh Addo-Carr, a move that raised some eyebrows due to Addo-Carr’s recent sacking by the Bulldogs following a failed roadside drug test.

Despite this controversy, Ryles has no hesitation in bringing the speedy winger on board. Having worked with Addo-Carr previously at the Melbourne Storm, Ryles is well aware of the impact the talented outside back can have on the field. He emphasized that while Addo-Carr’s four-match suspension is a setback, he sees it as an opportunity for the player to prove himself going forward, stressing that there are no guarantees of a starting spot for the winger.

As Parramatta looks ahead to the 2025 NRL season, Ryles is also faced with the task of selecting a new fullback and captain. With Clint Gutherson’s departure to the Dragons, the competition for the fullback position is fierce. Isaiah Iongi, who has shown great promise after learning from Penrith’s Dylan Edwards, is viewed as the front-runner, although Joash Papalii’s impressive pre-season performances could make him a strong contender as well. According to Ryles, both players will have the chance to fight it out during the pre-season to secure the crucial No.1 jersey. Iongi, with over 60 games in reserve grade, has the advantage of experience, but Ryles is confident that both players have the potential to step up.

When it comes to the captaincy, Mitchell Moses stands out as the likely candidate. While Junior Paulo has shared the co-captain role with Gutherson in the past, Ryles described Moses as a “natural leader” and indicated that the star halfback will be a key figure in the captaincy discussion. The final decision will be made with input from the players themselves, and the choice will be confirmed by the end of January. Ryles also acknowledged the unique challenge ahead, as he faces his former mentor, Craig Bellamy, in his debut as a head coach when the Eels take on the Storm in round one of the new season.

As Parramatta prepares for the upcoming season, including a highly anticipated round-five clash with the Bulldogs, Ryles is confident that the Eels will be ready to make an impact, despite the tough decisions still ahead.