Parramatta Eels halfback Dean Hawkins could be on his way out as the club reportedly prepares to sign Storm playmaker Jonah Pezet for 2026, with a potential move to the English Super League now on the horizon.
While it hasn’t been officially confirmed, reports indicate Pezet is set to join the Eels on a one-year deal before linking up with the Brisbane Broncos on a long-term contract starting in 2027.
The move comes after the young halfback activated a clause in his contract allowing him to explore opportunities with other NRL clubs, following Melbourne’s re-signing of Jahrome Hughes—effectively closing the door on a starting role for him at the Storm.
Parramatta initially eyed Joash Papalii to partner Mitchell Moses in the halves following Dylan Brown’s move to the Newcastle Knights.
However, with Pezet’s imminent arrival, the number six jersey now appears firmly in his hands, pushing Papalii and the rest of the club’s halves further down the pecking order.
According to The Sydney Morning Herald, this development has reportedly led to Hawkins being granted a release from the remainder of his contract, which runs until the end of 2026, allowing him to pursue a deal with the English Super League.
Although the specific Super League destination hasn’t been revealed, the 26-year-old is reportedly set for a multi-year stint overseas from 2026, giving him a chance to establish himself as a regular starter and attract renewed NRL attention.
Having joined the Eels this year after a four-year stint with the South Sydney Rabbitohs, Hawkins featured in 12 games during the 2025 season, stepping in for an injured or State of Origin-selected Mitchell Moses and delivering solid performances.
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