The NRL’s silly season is officially open with the conclusion of the Finals and the passing of the November 1 contract deadline. Smart Signings will provide insights into clubs’ weaknesses, needs for improvement, and realistic options for replacement players. The 2022 Grand Final set Parramatta up for success, but they fell short in 2023 due to injuries, player bans, and an unfavorable schedule. The team’s style is based on their front row, but the absence of key players affected their effectiveness last season. Despite their issues, the back-up players have now been integrated into the squad, and the backrow options had a good season. The purchases of Ryan Matterson, Bryce Cartwright, and J’maine Hopgood, and the emergence of Wiremu Greig and Joe Ofahengaue have strengthened the pack. The Eels have struggled on the left-wing, and their ever-changing backline has impacted their attack. Their edge combination needs to be upgraded, and signings are essential to address the team’s flaws. Josh Addo-Carr, Nick Cotric, and Daniel Tupou are all potential options, each offering different strengths and weaknesses. Their squad has potential if they can tap into it, and the addition of the right player could see them climb up the ladder. Addo-Carr is a route they could take, but they have other options too.
