On NRL 360 tonight, Braith Anasta has reported that Eels winger Zac Lomax is about to put pen to paper to sign a deal with the new R360 league in 2026 that kicks off in September 2026, with him also mentioning that Zac may not return to the Eels for next season at all. This is all speculation at this point and I hope this is not true, but reports came out last month that Zac reported to Eels offical’s of his interest in R360 so the timing seems correct. Lomax has only gotten 1 year into his 4 year deal so this truly would be shocking and if this is false Lomax and his management need to come out and put this to rest immediately!
On NRL 360 Tonight: Braith Anasta Reports That Zac Lomax Could Be On The Verge Of Signing With The New R360 League In 2026
The rugby league world has been rocked by fresh speculation coming out of NRL 360 tonight, with host Braith Anasta dropping a bombshell: Parramatta Eels winger Zac Lomax is reportedly “about to put pen to paper” on a deal with the new R360 league, which is scheduled to launch in September 2026. The timing of the report is striking, not least because Lomax is only one year into a four-year deal with the Eels, and questions are already swirling about whether he may even return to the club for next season.
For Eels fans, the news is both confusing and frustrating. After all, Lomax was seen as a prized recruit when he made his way into blue and gold, offering speed, skill, and a versatile attacking spark on the edge. To lose him prematurely—especially to a league not yet tested—would be nothing short of stunning. Yet, as with many stories in the rugby league media cycle, the line between fact and speculation is often blurred. And this one demands deep scrutiny.
Part I: What Was Said on NRL 360
According to Braith Anasta’s segment, sources close to Lomax have suggested that discussions with representatives of the R360 league have advanced to the point where a formal signing could be imminent. Anasta stressed that this is still speculation, but he noted that reports dating back to last month indicated Lomax had already notified Eels officials of his interest in exploring the R360 concept.
The key point here is that, while nothing has been officially confirmed, the alignment of timelines—R360’s September 2026 launch and Lomax’s existing dissatisfaction rumors—lends the report a degree of credibility that cannot be ignored.
Part II: Who is Zac Lomax?
To understand the magnitude of this story, one must first appreciate who Zac Lomax is and why his potential departure from the NRL would resonate so loudly.
- Early Career: Lomax came through the junior pathways as one of the most highly touted prospects in New South Wales. With a blend of natural athleticism, sharp kicking ability, and a knack for reading the game, he was often labeled a “once-in-a-generation” outside back.
- NRL Breakthrough: At the St George Illawarra Dragons, he quickly established himself as a reliable scorer and playmaker. His ability to kick goals with precision added an extra dimension to his skill set.
- Move to the Eels: Signing with Parramatta was seen as a career-defining decision, with the Eels eager to bolster their backline after years of inconsistency on the wing. Lomax’s arrival was meant to be a cornerstone of the club’s rebuild under Jason Ryles.
Lomax was expected to flourish at Parramatta, given their expansive style and strong halves pairing. That is why the suggestion he could already be plotting an early exit feels so jarring.
Part III: The Emergence of the R360 League
To the casual fan, R360 might still feel like an abstract concept, but behind the scenes, it has been building serious momentum. The league, slated to debut in September 2026, is marketed as a “reinvented rugby code”—a fast-paced, entertainment-driven alternative to traditional rugby league and union.
Some of its rumored features include:
- Modified rules to encourage higher scoring.
- Shorter match times for television friendliness.
- Star-driven recruitment to attract mainstream audiences.
- Heavy financial backing from international investors, making player salaries competitive with the NRL and Super League.
For a player like Lomax, whose marketability is matched by his athletic skill, R360 could be both a financial and personal opportunity. Yet, the risk of joining an untested league is immense, as rugby history is littered with failed “breakaway competitions.”
Part IV: Why This Would Be Shocking
The shock value of this story comes down to timing and contracts. Lomax is barely one year into a lucrative four-year deal with Parramatta. Walking away now, especially when the Eels have invested heavily in him, would leave the club scrambling.
In addition:
- Eels’ Expectations: Lomax was brought in to be part of the long-term plan. His combination with Dylan Brown and Clint Gutherson was seen as a foundation for Parramatta’s attacking identity.
- Fan Trust: Eels supporters, some of the most passionate in the league, would understandably feel betrayed if Lomax departs prematurely.
- Legal/Contractual Issues: Leaving early would inevitably spark disputes over release clauses, buyouts, and potential compensation. The Eels are unlikely to let a marquee player walk without a fight.
Part V: The Speculation Factor
It is vital to stress that nothing has been confirmed. As of now, Lomax has not signed with R360, nor has he publicly declared an intent to leave the Eels immediately. Much of this is fueled by anonymous reports and commentary from analysts.
If the story proves false, it could cause unnecessary damage to Lomax’s reputation. Already, fans are beginning to question his loyalty, and pressure is mounting on him and his management to address the rumors directly. Transparency will be key if he wishes to silence the speculation.
Part VI: Possible Motivations for Lomax
If there is truth to the reports, why would Lomax consider such a dramatic move? Several factors could be at play:
- Financial Incentives: R360 is reportedly offering salaries that rival or exceed top-tier NRL contracts.
- New Challenge: After years in the NRL, Lomax might see R360 as a chance to be part of something revolutionary.
- Lifestyle Factors: R360 is rumored to have teams based not only in Australia but also internationally, potentially appealing to players seeking fresh experiences.
- Frustration at Parramatta: If Lomax feels unsettled within the Eels system, the lure of a reset might be strong.
Part VII: The Reaction from Eels Fans
Parramatta fans are already voicing concern online. Social media platforms lit up after Anasta’s comments, with many expressing disbelief that a player who committed to the Eels long-term would entertain such a move so soon.
Some of the reactions included:
- Calls for Lomax to issue a statement clarifying his stance.
- Frustration at the endless media speculation surrounding Parramatta players.
- Hope that this story is nothing more than a “media beat-up.”
The emotional connection between fans and players in rugby league cannot be overstated. For Eels fans, loyalty is everything.
Part VIII: The Broader Impact on the NRL
If Lomax were to sign with R360, it would represent more than just the loss of one player. It could set a precedent: that stars are willing to abandon the NRL for new competitions if the incentives are right.
The NRL would then face difficult questions:
- How can it protect its talent pool?
- Should it increase the salary cap to remain competitive?
- How should it respond to the threat of rival leagues poaching its stars?
History has shown that competitions like Super League in the 1990s reshaped the sport dramatically. Could R360 be the next major shake-up?
Part IX: What Happens Next
The immediate priority is clarity. Lomax and his management need to either confirm or deny the reports. Silence will only fuel further speculation.
For the Eels, contingency planning may already be underway. Losing Lomax would hurt, but the club has a history of rebuilding around adversity. If necessary, they could look to the transfer market or promote from within to fill the void.
As for R360, every high-profile link strengthens its credibility. Whether Lomax ultimately signs or not, the mere fact that his name is attached to the project gives it legitimacy.
Conclusion: A Story That Could Change Everything
The possibility of Zac Lomax leaving Parramatta for the new R360 league is a storyline loaded with intrigue, risk, and potential consequences for the entire sport of rugby league. It touches on themes of loyalty, ambition, financial temptation, and the ever-changing dynamics of professional sport.
Right now, it remains speculation—but the timing, context, and credibility of the reports mean it cannot simply be dismissed. For Parramatta fans, it is a moment of unease. For R360, it is a signal that their ambitious project is being taken seriously. For Lomax, it is a crossroads that could define his career and his legacy.
Until there is an official word, the rugby league world waits—watching closely, debating passionately, and wondering whether this will go down as one of the most shocking player moves of the modern era.
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