Brisbane Broncos Forward Jordan Riki Signs Four-Year, $4.2 Million Deal with Parramatta Eels
In a major development that has set tongues wagging across the National Rugby League (NRL) landscape, Jordan Riki, the powerful forward from the Brisbane Broncos, has officially inked a four-year deal worth $4.2 million with the Parramatta Eels. The move, confirmed this week, marks one of the most significant recruitment coups for the Eels as they continue their quest to re-establish themselves as a powerhouse of the competition.
A Massive Statement of Intent from Parramatta
The Eelsโ decision to invest heavily in Riki is seen as a bold statement of intent. Worth approximately $1.05 million per season, the contract elevates Riki into the upper echelon of NRL forwards, rewarding both his potential and his proven ability to dominate the middle of the park.
Parramatta CEO Jim Sarantinos described the signing as โa landmark moment for the club.โ He added:
โJordan Riki embodies everything we want in a Parramatta Eels player โ toughness, resilience, and a relentless work ethic. His presence will give our forward pack a new dimension, and we believe he has the ability to lift those around him.โ
For a club that has seen a number of key departures over the past year, including long-serving forwards and influential playmakers, securing Riki provides not only stability but also a renewed sense of optimism for the future.
Rikiโs Journey with the Broncos
Rikiโs departure from the Brisbane Broncos marks the end of an important chapter in his career. Since making his debut in 2020, the New Zealand-born forward quickly carved out a reputation as one of the most explosive young talents in the NRL. His size, agility, and defensive tenacity made him a fan favorite at Suncorp Stadium.
During his time with the Broncos, Riki played over 80 first-grade games, scoring crucial tries and often leading from the front in defense. His leadership qualities also began to shine, with many analysts tipping him as a future captain.
However, with the Broncosโ roster brimming with emerging forwards, Parramattaโs offer proved too compelling to resist. The combination of financial security and the opportunity to spearhead a rebuilding pack was decisive in Rikiโs choice.
A Key Piece in Parramattaโs Rebuild
The Parramatta Eels have endured a turbulent period marked by inconsistent results and off-field changes. With the departure of coach Jason Ryles earlier in the year and several senior players leaving or retiring, the club has been determined to rebuild its foundation.
Rikiโs arrival is expected to play a pivotal role in that effort. Head coach Trent Barrett (who stepped in after Rylesโ exit) welcomed the signing, calling Riki โa game-changer.โ
โJordan is the kind of forward who can change the momentum of a match with one run or one tackle. His athleticism and aggression suit our style of play, and I canโt wait to see him combine with the rest of our pack,โ Barrett said.
Analysts agree that Parramattaโs forward rotation, featuring Riki alongside Junior Paulo and Reagan Campbell-Gillard, has the potential to be one of the most feared in the competition.
Reaction from Fans and Former Players
The news of Rikiโs move has sparked mixed reactions. Broncos fans expressed disappointment at losing a homegrown star but wished him success in Sydney. โHe gave everything to the club, and while weโre sad to see him go, he deserves this opportunity,โ one supporter commented on social media.
Eels fans, on the other hand, erupted with excitement. Many believe Rikiโs signing could be the turning point the club has desperately needed. โThis is the kind of player who can inspire us back to finals football,โ one lifelong fan wrote.
Former NRL players also weighed in, with ex-Broncos great Corey Parker noting: โItโs a big loss for Brisbane, but a huge gain for Parramatta. Riki is only going to get better, and under the right system, he could become one of the leagueโs elite forwards.โ
Looking Ahead
At just 24 years old, Jordan Riki has his best years ahead of him, and his move to the Eels symbolizes both ambition and opportunity. Parramatta is betting on Riki to become the cornerstone of their pack for years to come.
Riki himself expressed gratitude to the Broncos while sharing excitement about his new chapter:
โBrisbane will always be special to me. They gave me my start and helped me grow as a player and a person. But Iโm ready for this next challenge, and Iโm excited to represent Parramatta. I want to help bring success to the club and make the fans proud.โ
With a four-year, $4.2 million contract locked in, the Eels have secured a marquee signing that could shape their future. As the 2026 season looms, all eyes will be on Jordan Riki to see whether he can deliver on the faith Parramatta has placed in him โ and perhaps lead them back to premiership glory.
