Electric young fullback signs monster contract extension with Parramatta Eels
Fullback Isaiah Iongi has signed a long-term contract extension with Parramatta, keeping him at the club until the end of the 2030 NRL season.
Iongi's form was a pleasant surprise for Eels coach Jason Ryles in 2025, with the 22-year-old crossing for eight tries and recording 12 try assists.
His strong form earned him representative honours, playing for Tonga in the Pacific Championships.
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"The Parramatta Eels are delighted to announce that talented young fullback Isaiah Iongi has signed a long-term contract extension, keeping him at the club until the end of the 2030 NRL season," the club said in a statement.
Iongi said he's excited to be part of Jason Ryles' long-term plans.
"This past year has been surreal, I came to Parramatta for an opportunity and now it's become home.
"I've built a great connection with Jason Ryles, the coaching staff, my teammates, and everyone at the club, and I'm grateful for the faith they've shown in me.
"The incredible support from our fans has made my journey even more special.
"We've grown so much as a team over the past year, and I can't wait to keep building our future together at this club."
Isaiah Iongi of the Eels celebrates after scoring a try during the round 26 NRL match between the New Zealand Warriors and Parramatta Eels at Go Media Stadium on August 29, 2025, in Auckland, New Zealand. (Photo by Phil Walter/Getty Images) Getty
The signing is a huge leap of faith from the Eels, who have made Iongi the longest-signed player on the Eels' roster.
Iongi is contracted to the club longer than Mitch Moses and Tallyn da Silva, who are signed until 2029.
He was already signed until 2027 but it's clear Ryles has his heart set on him as the club's long term answer to the fullback position, after releasing Clint Gutherson to make way for the ex-Panther.
The 22-year-old was then Parramatta's rookie of the year.
"Isaiah has developed into an important member of the team and has settled into the club and our environment very well since he arrived last year," Eels football boss Mark O'Neill said.
"With his positive mindset, strong work ethic and desire to improve, we see him as a long-term leader at the Eels.
"Jason, the coaches and the rest of the club are incredibly excited to see him continue to evolve over the coming years."
