In the world of rugby league, rumors are swirling about a potential player trade involving the Eels and Zac Lomax, a former standout player. Veteran sports journalist Phil Rothfield has ignited discussions by suggesting that the Eels might consider trading Lomax in light of his desire to join the Melbourne Storm for the 2026 season. The Melbourne club is very interested in acquiring him, but any agreement hinges on the Eels' stance regarding his contract situation.
Lomax's release from the Eels is complicated by stipulations in his contract that prevent him from signing with another rival NRL team until his current deal expires. Rothfield took to social media to propose a swap, mentioning "Jack Howarth for Zac Lomax," which hints at how the Eels might seek compensation for releasing Lomax. Although Rothfield didn’t delve deeper into the specifics of this trade proposal, it’s clear that the Eels would prefer to receive something in return—be it financial compensation or another player—before letting Lomax go.
Howarth, who is under contract until the end of the 2027 season, could be a key piece in negotiations, assuming he agrees to the move. The 23-year-old has shown promise, having scored six tries in 33 appearances for the Storm since his debut in 2023. However, injuries have limited his playing time, as he missed a significant portion of the last Grand Final due to injury issues. Notably, Howarth has a connection with Eels head coach Jason Ryles from their time together at Melbourne, where Ryles served as an assistant coach. Since taking over at Parramatta, Ryles has already signed former Storm players like Josh Addo-Carr and Jonah Pezet, indicating his intent to bring in familiar talent.
Recently, Lomax has taken significant steps to further his ambitions. According to reports, he has hired Ramy Qutami, a lawyer known for representing high-profile athletes, including Israel Folau during his dismissal dispute with Rugby Australia. Lomax’s goal is to secure a complete release from his Eels contract, which would enable him to accept an offer with the Storm.
Originally, Lomax was released from his four-year deal with the Eels under the condition that he wouldn't sign with another NRL club for the duration of his contract, which runs through 2028. However, the landscape may have shifted since Lomax was slated to participate in the R360 competition—a league that has been postponed until 2028. This delay effectively puts his career in a holding pattern, leaving him open to offers from Super Rugby teams like the Western Force and ACT Brumbies, although negotiations have hit a snag due to Rugby Australia's refusal to back a top-up on his existing contract.
Lomax previously turned down a lucrative $700,000-per-season contract with the Eels and an $850,000 deal with the Dragons to sign with the Eels. This financial decision means he stands to lose approximately $2.1 million over the next three years if he can't find a suitable contract elsewhere.
Interestingly, the Eels are scheduled to face off against the Storm in Round 1 of the upcoming season, presenting a unique opportunity for Lomax to potentially play against his old club in what would be a dramatic first appearance after his departure. Throughout his NRL career, Lomax has amassed impressive statistics, including 58 tries and 368 goals across 133 games, alongside his international experience with the Blues and Kangaroos.
Meanwhile, the Eels face challenges in replacing Lomax, especially given the timing of his release late in the season. Recently, they secured a two-year deal with Titans center Brian Kelly, but questions linger on whether that move can adequately fill the void left by Lomax's exit.
As discussions between the Eels and Storm continue, it raises an important question: what should take precedence in negotiations—player loyalty or the quest for new opportunities? Your thoughts?
