HE’S STAYING HOME! Tom Dearden Officially Signs a Long-Term $8.8 Million Contract With the Parramatta Eels — Calling the Club “Family” and Vowing to Bring Home the NRL Championship…
HE’S STAYING HOME! Tom Dearden Officially Signs a Long-Term $8.8 Million Contract With the Parramatta Eels — Calling the Club “Family” and Vowing to Bring Home the NRL Championship
In one of the most emotional and defining moments of the NRL season, Tom Dearden has officially ended months of speculation by signing a new four-year contract with the Parramatta Eels, worth an incredible $8.8 million. The announcement, confirmed earlier today, has sent waves of excitement through the rugby league world — and especially among the loyal Eels faithful who have been eagerly waiting to know the future of their star playmaker.
The 23-year-old halfback, who has become one of the most electrifying and consistent performers in the NRL, made it clear that his heart belongs in blue and gold. Speaking after putting pen to paper, Dearden delivered a heartfelt message that resonated deeply with fans and teammates alike:
“This club is my family. Parramatta has believed in me since day one, and I’m here to repay that faith. I want to help bring a premiership home to our supporters — that’s my goal, and that’s what drives me every single day.”
It was a moment that captured the very essence of loyalty and passion, two qualities that have come to define Dearden’s approach to the game. While other clubs across the NRL were reportedly circling with big-money offers — including interest from rival Sydney teams and even potential overseas opportunities — Dearden chose to stay true to the Eels, the club that has helped him reach the prime of his career.
Sources close to the negotiations revealed that the new deal, which locks him in until the end of the 2029 season, makes him one of the highest-paid halves in NRL history. But for Dearden, the decision was never about money. Insiders say what truly mattered to him was the opportunity to continue building something special in Parramatta, alongside a team and fanbase that he deeply loves.
Eels head coach Jason Ryles couldn’t hide his joy after the announcement, praising Dearden’s leadership, humility, and relentless work ethic.
“Tom is everything we want this club to stand for — hardworking, selfless, and passionate. He’s not just a player; he’s a leader, and his commitment sends a powerful message to everyone in our organization,” Arthur said.
Under Dearden’s guidance, the Eels have been revitalized in recent seasons. His sharp decision-making, composure under pressure, and ability to ignite attacking plays have turned him into one of the NRL’s most respected halves. Teammates describe him as “the heartbeat of the locker room” — a player who inspires those around him through quiet determination rather than loud words.
Fans flooded social media with joy after the announcement, many calling it the “best signing of the year.” Within minutes of the club’s official post, hashtags like #DeardenStays and #EelsFamily began trending nationwide. One fan wrote, “Tom Dearden isn’t just our playmaker — he’s our future. This is what loyalty looks like.” Another said, “You can’t buy passion. You can’t buy heart. Dearden just proved that.”
Club CEO Jim Sarantinos called the re-signing a major step toward building a championship-winning squad.
“This deal represents our belief in Tom and what he brings both on and off the field. He’s a cornerstone of our future, and his leadership will be vital as we continue chasing that long-awaited premiership.”
Indeed, Parramatta’s championship drought — stretching back to 1986 — has long been a motivating factor for every Eels player. Dearden’s renewed commitment now gives fans a sense of hope and stability. His partnership in the halves, combined with the Eels’ mix of young talent and experienced veterans, could very well be the key to ending that 39-year wait.
Dearden’s journey to this point has been nothing short of inspiring. From a determined teenager fighting for his spot in the NRL to becoming one of the most trusted playmakers in Australian rugby league, his rise has been defined by resilience, consistency, and belief. Many remember his early struggles and critics, but Dearden has always responded the same way — with hard work and humility.
Off the field, Dearden continues to give back to the community, supporting youth programs and engaging with fans at local schools and events. His grounded personality and approachability have made him one of the league’s most respected figures — someone young players look up to not only for his skill, but for his values.
As the celebrations continue, it’s clear that this signing is more than just a contract extension — it’s a statement of faith in the club’s future. The Eels now have their leader, their playmaker, and their spiritual core locked in for years to come.
And for Tom Dearden, the mission is crystal clear.
“I want to bring that trophy back to Parramatta. The fans deserve it, the club deserves it, and we’re going to fight for it every season. This is home — and I’m not going anywhere.”
Those words echo the very soul of the Eels — resilient, passionate, and unwavering in their belief.
This is loyalty. This is passion. This is Parramatta.
