One of rugby league\u2019s most unique contracts has officially been signed with Jonah Pezet to play for Parramatta next season before he joins the Broncos on a three-year deal as the club\u2019s long-term replacement for veteran halfback Adam Reynolds.<\/p>\n
Pezet, 22, was under contract at Melbourne until the end of the 2029 season but activated a clause for an early release after the club re-signed Jahrome Hughes on a long-term deal that would have delayed his NRL prospects.<\/p>\n
Instead, he\u2019ll join the Eels to work under coach Jason Ryles who was an assistant at the Storm, with Pezet to partner rep star Mitch Moses in the halves next season.<\/p>\n
\u201cJonah is one of the most exciting young talents in the game,\u201d Eels general manager of football Mark O\u2019Neill said, with Pezet to begin pre-season training in December. <\/p>\n
\u201cHe adds class and depth to our halves as we head into the 2026 season. Jonah will join us for a year which makes us better now whilst also allowing time for our emerging talent to continue their development through our pathways system.<\/p>\n
\u201cOur head coach Jason Ryles has previously worked with Jonah and knows firsthand the professionalism and impact he can have in a team environment. <\/p>\n
\u201cWe\u2019re excited to welcome Jonah to the club and look forward to seeing him connect with our squad and Eels community in 2026.\u201d<\/p>\n
Pezet will then join the Broncos in 2027 where he\u2019ll likely replace Reynolds who is off contract next year.<\/p>\n
It\u2019s an ideal scenario for the premiers who have a young spine featuring Ezra Mam and Reece Walsh that can continue to compete for titles with Pezet there to pull the strings.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe\u2019re delighted to have secured Jonah\u2019s services to the Broncos for the 2027 season and beyond,\u201d Broncos general manager of recruitment and pathways Simon Scanlan said. <\/p>\n
\u201cAs a club, we\u2019ve been extremely impressed with Jonah – not only for his talent and potential as a developing player but also for the professionalism and character he\u2019s shown as a young man.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe wish him all the very best for the upcoming season and look forward to welcoming him to the Broncos in November next year.\u201d<\/p>\n
It\u2019s a big loss for the Storm who saw Pezet as their long-term halfback, with the emerging star overcoming a serious knee injury in 2024 to play eight games for Melbourne this season, including their finals win over the Bulldogs.<\/p>\n
Pezet\u2019s departure puts a few players in the spotlight with fullback Ryan Papenhuyzen linked with a move to R360 in 2027, while veteran five-eighth Cameron Munster had been linked with the Perth Bears.<\/p>\n
But that appears to be dead and buried with Munster keen to see out his current deal with the Storm and potentially extend his stay further. <\/p>\n
\u201cJonah has been a much-loved member of our squad for the past four years. He has worked incredibly hard to overcome his injury setbacks, displaying great character and a positive attitude throughout his time at Storm,\u201d director of football Frank Ponissi said.<\/p>\n
\u201cWhile we\u2019re disappointed to lose a player of Jonah\u2019s talent, we understand his decision to explore his options. We thank Jonah for his service to our club and wish him the best for his next chapter.\u201d<\/p>\n