NRL Fans Divided After Moses’ Stunning Contract Decision Goes Public
In a move that has stunned the rugby league world, Parramatta Eels halfback Mitchell Moses has reportedly made a contract decision that could reshape both his career and the club’s future. Sources close to the situation say Moses has informed Eels management that he intends to activate an early release clause in his current deal, opening the door for a potential move ahead of the 2026 NRL season. Several rival clubs, including the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs and his former team, the Wests Tigers, are believed to have already made contact.
The news broke late Sunday night and immediately set social media alight. Within minutes, Eels fans flooded online forums, sports talk shows, and X (formerly Twitter) with passionate reactions. Some expressed understanding and support, while others accused the star playmaker of walking out when the club needed him most.
Moses’ decision comes at the end of a turbulent 2025 campaign for Parramatta — their first under new head coach Jason Ryles. Despite flashes of brilliance from their marquee halfback, the Eels once again missed the top eight, prompting questions about internal cohesion and long-term direction. Behind the scenes, reports suggest occasional friction between Ryles and Moses, particularly over game strategy. Ryles has been intent on implementing a more structured, defensively disciplined approach, while Moses, known for his flair and instinctive playmaking, has reportedly preferred a looser attacking style.
“Mitchell’s always been at his best when he’s allowed to play what’s in front of him,” one source close to the team said. “The new system tightened things up, and that frustrated him at times. He still respects Ryles, but there’s been tension.”
Few, however, expected Moses to consider leaving the Eels entirely. At 31, he remains one of the NRL’s premier halves and a key figure in the club’s leadership core. His current contract places him among the league’s highest earners, and Parramatta’s management had viewed him as the centrepiece of their rebuild under Ryles. The revelation that he might depart has, understandably, left fans divided.
“He’s given his all for years — if he wants to chase a premiership elsewhere, I can’t blame him,” one fan wrote online. Others were less forgiving, with another post reading, “We backed him through injuries, form slumps, and criticism. For him to walk now feels like a betrayal.”
Former Eels great Nathan Hindmarsh offered a measured take on the drama during a live segment on NRL 360, calling the development “a tough pill to swallow” for supporters but not entirely surprising. “Mitchell’s at a point in his career where he’s got three or four elite years left,” Hindmarsh said. “He’s got to make the decision that gives him the best shot at a title — even if it hurts Parramatta fans.”
At a press conference Monday morning, Jason Ryles addressed the situation briefly but firmly. “I’ve spoken to Mitch,” he said. “He’s weighing up his options, and until anything’s official, he’s an Eel. He’s a professional, and whatever happens, this club will move forward.” Sources within the organization indicate that Ryles has already begun preparing for multiple scenarios — either retaining Moses on a new long-term deal or pivoting toward developing young halves Daejarn Asi and Ethan Sanders as future playmakers.
If Moses ultimately departs, it would mark the end of a defining era for the Eels. Since rejoining the club in 2017, he has become one of its most influential figures, leading Parramatta to multiple finals appearances and a memorable Grand Final berth in 2022. His leadership, game management, and kicking game have been central to everything the Eels have achieved over the past decade.
Parramatta is still expected to table an upgraded contract offer in a final bid to keep their star half, but rival clubs are reportedly circling with aggressive packages that could be hard to match. For now, the situation remains fluid, and the rugby league world is watching closely.
One thing is certain: Mitchell Moses’ next move could redefine the NRL landscape. Whether he recommits to the blue and gold or seeks a fresh start elsewhere, the fallout from his decision will be felt across the league — and among Eels fans who are once again left wondering what the future holds.