NRL: Dylan Walker released from NZ Warriors to join Eels
Utility Dylan Walker has been granted an early release from the New Zealand Warriors this Wednesday and will depart for Australia immediately to join the Parramatta Eels until the end of 2026.
The exact circumstances of Walker’s release are unclear, but the Warriors cited compassionate grounds as the reason for his sudden exit.
“We were keen for Dylan to stay until the end of the season, but we appreciate why he needs to return to Sydney,” Warriors CEO Cameron George said.
“We’ve really enjoyed having him at our club, and he has given us tremendous service.
“He goes with our support and best wishes.”
Walker is a 232-game veteran in the NRL, having joined the Warriors on a three-year deal in 2023.
Primarily playing at lock but able to cover multiple positions, he came off the bench in the Kiwi club’s 14-6 victory over the Sydney Roosters last Friday.
The Parramatta Eels have announced that Walker will be joining them for the next two seasons, with the 30-year-old available as soon as Round 5.
“We’re excited to have a player of Dylan’s calibre join the Eels,” Eels general manager of football Mark O’Neill said.
“Dylan is such a tough competitor who will suit our style of football, and he will provide class and experience to our team.”
Walker’s additional is a welcome boost for Parramatta, who sit at the bottom of the table in 2025 and are winless from three matches.
NRL betting sites have them on the last line of betting ($201) to win the Premiership this season, and favourites ($3.50) to finish with the most losses.
For the Warriors, Walker’s exit will sting given that star back Roger Tuivasa-Sheck is out injured for eight weeks.
The top online bookmakers have New Zealand as underdogs heading into their next match, paying $2.40 to beat Wests Tigers on the road on Sunday.
