Hold onto your seats, rugby fans, because the Zac Lomax saga just took a dramatic turn! Could a player swap be the key to unlocking his move to the Storm? Veteran reporter Phil Rothfield has ignited a firestorm of speculation, suggesting the Eels might consider trading Lomax for Storm’s Jack Howarth. But here’s where it gets controversial: Lomax is desperate to join Melbourne for the 2026 season, but his release from the Eels comes with a major catch—he can’t sign with any NRL rival until 2028. And this is the part most people miss: the Eels hold all the cards, and they’re not budging without something in return.
Rothfield’s social media post, “Jack Howarth for Zac Lomax,” has everyone talking. While he didn’t elaborate, it’s clear the Eels would demand compensation, whether financial or in the form of a player swap. Howarth, a 23-year-old talent with six tries in 33 games for the Storm, fits the bill—but there’s a twist. He’s signed until 2027, so any deal would hinge on his willingness to join the Eels. Plus, he has a history with Eels coach Jason Ryles, who’s already poached former Storm stars like Josh Addo-Carr and Jonah Pezet.
But here’s the kicker: Howarth’s potential has been hampered by injuries, limiting him to just 16 games over the past two seasons. Meanwhile, Lomax has hired high-profile lawyer Ramy Qutami—the same legal eagle who represented Israel Folau—to fight for his full release. Lomax argues the terms of his deal have changed since the R360 competition he was set to join has been delayed until 2028. The Storm are eager to sign him, with salary cap space to spare, but the Eels are standing firm.
Is the Eels’ stance fair, or are they holding Lomax hostage? The Storm’s audacious bid to sign him was initially rejected, but negotiations are far from over. With Lomax’s career in limbo—and offers from Super Rugby teams like the Western Force and ACT Brumbies on the table—time is ticking. If a deal is struck, imagine the drama: Lomax could face his old club in Round 1 of the 2026 season.
What do you think? Should the Eels let Lomax go, or are they right to demand a player like Howarth in return? Let’s hear your take in the comments—this debate is just getting started!
