The Parramatta Eels have signed outside back Brian Kelly on a two-year deal, securing his services through to the end of the 2027 season.

A veteran of 190 first-grade games, Kelly joins the Eels following stints with the Titans and Sea Eagles. He looks set to fill the vacancy left by departing centre Zac Lomax.

Kelly’s versatility and running game bring much-needed depth and attacking spark to Parramatta’s backline after Lomax secured a release from the club after only one season.

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Brian Kelly of the Titans looks to break a tackle during his side's clash with the Broncos.

Brian Kelly of the Titans looks to break a tackle during his side’s clash with the Broncos.  Chris Hyde via Getty Images

In a statement, Parramatta’s football manager Mark O’Neill highlighted the experience and tactical versatility Kelly brings to the club.

“We had an opportunity to strengthen our outside backs, which was a positional area of need, and Brian certainly fits that need very well for us,” he said.

“Jason [Ryles] and the coaching staff are looking forward to working with Brian, who adds a greater attacking dimension to our game.”

Kelly’s resume includes representative honours with Country NSW, the Prime Minister’s XIII, and the Indigenous All Stars.

After parting ways with the Eels, Lomax was touted as a marquee target for the rebel R360 competition.

Zac Lomax looks on during the 2025 NRL Pre-Season Challenge. Getty

Under the terms of his release, Lomax is reportedly barred from joining a rival NRL club for the remainder of his original contract, ruling out a return to the league for now.

However, with R360 on ice until 2028, Lomax has been forced to look elsewhere for his immediate future, turning his attention to Super Rugby.

Last month, the Sydney Morning Herald reported that the Brumbies had tabled a two-year offer to rival the Western Force for his signature. The deal reportedly hinged on Rugby Australia providing a contract top-up to help secure the 26-year-old.

Having toured the Force’s facilities earlier in the month, Lomax continues to weigh up a move to the west.

After failing to secure a Super Rugby deal by the end of the year, Lomax remains in footballing limbo, facing the 2026 pre-season without a home club.

As both the Brumbies and Force ramp up their pre-season programs, the clock is ticking toward their round one showdown in Perth on February 14.