Parker makes bold call on Eels halves
Parramatta Eels legend Corey Parker has urged the club to think carefully about its halves plans for 2027, suggesting Ronald Volkman should be prioritised ahead of incoming star Jarome Luai.
Luai is scheduled to join Parramatta next season on a one-year deal before departing for the PNG Chiefs in 2028. While his arrival is expected to add considerable experience and creativity to the Eels’ attack, Parker believes the club should not overlook what Volkman has produced during his breakthrough campaign.
Volkman proves he belongs in the NRL
The 24-year-old Volkman has been one of the standout positives from what has otherwise been a difficult season for Parramatta.
After struggling to establish himself consistently at previous clubs, Volkman has taken his opportunity with the Eels and demonstrated that he possesses the skills required to operate effectively at NRL level.
His performances have reportedly convinced Parker that the young playmaker deserves to retain his place in the starting side, even with Luai arriving at the club.
Luai’s arrival creates selection dilemma
Parramatta’s decision to recruit Luai has inevitably created competition for the five-eighth position.
Luai brings extensive NRL experience, premiership-winning pedigree and a proven ability to perform under pressure. His signing therefore appeared to make him the natural choice to occupy the No.6 jersey when he arrives in 2027.
However, Parker’s argument is that Parramatta should consider the bigger picture rather than automatically handing the position to its newest recruit.
With Luai only contracted for one season before moving to PNG, Volkman could represent the longer-term option for the Eels.
Contract uncertainty clouds Volkman’s future
Despite his impressive performances, Volkman’s position at Parramatta remains uncertain.
Reports earlier in the season suggested the young playmaker could leave the club, with Canterbury Bulldogs reportedly among the teams interested in securing his services.
That speculation has added another layer to Parramatta’s halves dilemma. If the Eels cannot guarantee Volkman a starting position, the 25-game NRL player may decide that his best opportunity lies elsewhere.
Bulldogs could offer starting opportunity
A move to Canterbury could provide Volkman with an attractive alternative.
The Bulldogs have reportedly shown interest in the playmaker, and a potential partnership with Lachlan Galvin could give the club an exciting young halves combination.
For Volkman, the prospect of regularly playing in the starting side could be difficult to ignore. At Parramatta, meanwhile, he could find himself competing directly with Luai for the five-eighth role or potentially being pushed toward a bench position.
Parramatta must weigh experience against potential
The Eels now face an important decision about how they want to structure their attack.
Luai’s experience makes him an obvious asset, but his short-term contract means Parramatta could potentially find itself searching for another five-eighth again after the 2027 season.
Volkman, by contrast, is younger and has already demonstrated significant potential. Retaining him could give the Eels greater continuity and allow the club to develop a long-term halves combination.
Parker’s suggestion raises major questions
Parker’s recommendation will undoubtedly spark debate among Parramatta supporters.
Few would question Luai’s credentials, but the former Panthers star’s arrival could come at the expense of a player who has worked hard to establish himself in the NRL.
The Eels must now determine whether immediate experience should take priority or whether they should invest in Volkman’s potential.
A crucial decision for the Eels
With 2027 approaching, Parramatta cannot afford to mishandle Volkman’s future.
If the club believes he can become a long-term NRL playmaker, keeping him should be a priority. Allowing him to leave could hand another club a player capable of developing into a significant asset.
For now, Luai remains set to arrive, while Volkman’s future is uncertain. Parker’s call has nevertheless highlighted a fascinating selection battle that could shape the Eels’ direction well beyond next season.