Jason Ryles is yet to put his feet under the desk at Parramatta, but the issues facing him have already been identified, as he aims to get them back into finals next year.
Much has been made of Mitchell Moses’ outburst in the dressing room over a week ago, with criticism coming towards the Eels’ salary cap management.
League legend Paul Gallen believes that’s the biggest issue facing Ryles
“I think he’s the right man for the job, he’s got a great resume as we said but I think the whole salary cap is an issue,” he said on Nine’s 100% Footy.
None of Parramatta’s big name players will come off contract at the end of this season apart from Bailey Simonsson, however the end of 2025 will present an opportunity for Ryles to shake-up the roster.
Reagan Campbell-Gillard, Bryce Cartwright, Clint Gutherson and J’maine Hopgood will all be off contract while Ryan Matterson has a player option and Shaun Lane a mutual option.
“I’d imagine that’s pretty top heavy,” Gallen said.
“Some of those players, Reagan Campbell-Gillard and Junior Paulo, they were rep players two or three years ago, they’ve probably passed that now so you’d think they’re coming towards the back end of their career.”
Gutherson’s contract will be the big talking point, with reports that ratchet clauses means he’s now earning over $1 million-a-season.
The fullback will likely have plenty of suitors, depending on how much he’ll be demanding.
Gallen believes the contract of the Eels captain is a “big one” for Ryles.
“Gutho’s the heart and soul of that side, we know that. And Gutho’s coming towards the back end of his career too, he’s going to want what he’s worth,” he said.
“Is he going to be able to stay for less so they can sign other players? That’s the thing.
“I look at guys like Mitchell Moses and hear about the blow ups and things like that and they’re getting the best money because they deserve the best money but you’ve also got to remember when you’re taking all the money in the salary cap, you can’t be blowing up because your depth isn’t think that good.
“You can’t be signing blokes if you’re taking all the money.”