Written by Megan Taylor, sports reporter covering international sports since 2020
Jason Ryles is facing growing scrutiny after the Parramatta Eels slipped to 15th on the NRL ladder during his second season as coach. Questions over the Sydney club’s direction intensified on July 22, with finals hopes nearly gone despite strong expectations entering 2026.
The Parramatta Eels have won six of 17 matches this season after finishing 11th with a 10-14 record in 2025. Their points differential has fallen from -76 last year to -176 with seven regular-season games remaining.
Also read: NRL Finals: Predicted Top Eight and Final Ladder for 2026.
Jason Ryles record questioned
“Why is he (Ryles) a protected species. Why don’t the Sydney journos have a crack at him?” The Courier Mail journalist Peter Badel said on NRL 360.
Peter Badel noted that Jason Ryles has a 39 per cent winning record since taking charge. Peter Badel also compared the current results with former Parramatta Eels coach Brad Arthur reaching the top six five times between 2017 and 2022.
“They are now 6-11. Their differential last year was minus 76. Now it’s minus 176, and there’s still seven games to go.”
The official Parramatta Eels profile lists Jason Ryles as coach and Mitchell Moses as captain. Mitchell Moses has missed much of the season through injury, removing the team’s leading organiser for long periods.
Recruitment decisions shape decline
Dylan Brown left the Parramatta Eels for the Newcastle Knights on a $13 million deal during the off-season. Jonah Pezet arrived on a one-year contract but has not provided the replacement the Parramatta Eels needed alongside Mitchell Moses.
The Parramatta Eels also moved Clint Gutherson on and handed Isaiah Iongi the fullback role. Journalist David Riccio argued that immediate finals expectations for the young player would be unfair, but said recruitment remained a clear weakness.
“Where they are lacking, absolutely, is in their recruitment.”
Jason Ryles made difficult roster calls during his first season and initially received support after a promising finish. However, the poor defensive numbers and lack of improvement have shifted attention back towards the coach.
The Parramatta Eels now host the Penrith Panthers in Round 21. With the top eight almost beyond reach, Jason Ryles must use the remaining games to show that his rebuild can produce progress.
