Reagan Campbell-Gillard will be one of the biggest names available in the free agent market heading into the 2025 NRL season.
Despite winning Parramatta's Player of the Year award this year, the veteran forward has not been offered a contract extension by the Eels.
The decision has come as a surprise to many, particularly considering Campbell-Gillard's consistency and experience.
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New Eels head coach Jason Ryles spoke about the matter in his first official club interview.
"It was just an opportunity for both parties ... we'd come to an agreement where it was best for both of us," Ryles said.
"I couldn't guarantee what the squad was going to look like post-2025.
"He had an opportunity to extend his career right now. I didn't want to stand in his way to do that.
"At the end of the day, decisions need to be made, and it's part of the game ... nothing personal.
"I just wanted to do what was best for him going forward and make a decision for our club for the future."
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Campbell-Gillard headlines a list of 11 players departing the Eels this season, as Parramatta undergo a cleanout ahead of 2025.
While his next destination is unclear, he is likely to remain in the NRL.
Former Eels coach Brad Arthur – who has just signed an extension with Leeds Rhinos – doesn't expect RCG to make the move to the UK's Super League next season.
"I think he has got himself sorted, to be honest," he said.
"At some stage, I think he'd like to try his hand in the Super League. But he's still got a bit of NRL left in him yet."
