Addo-Carr free to leave Eels as club rejects extension opportunity

In short: 

Josh Addo-Carr is free to leave Parramatta immediately after the Eels revealed they would not offer him a contract extension.

Addo-Carr has one year remaining on his deal, and the Eels are happy for him to see out his deal, but will not stand in the way of him joining a rival club.

What's next?

The 31-year-old is due back at pre-season training with the Eels next week, as his management looks to secure the flyer a future elsewhere.

Josh Addo-Carr is free to leave Parramatta immediately after the Eels advised the former Test winger the club would not offer him a contract extension beyond 2027.

After a series of bizarre twists and turns, the Eels have decided Addo-Carr is not wanted after next season and he can start hunting for a new NRL club.

The development comes despite the NRL integrity unit clearing the 31-year-old to return to Parramatta after failing a roadside random drugs test in October.

The ex-NSW State of Origin and Kangaroos star received an unexpected lifeline when his B sample came back negative earlier this month.

"The Parramatta Eels would like to provide an update regarding Josh Addo-Carr following a driving incident in September," an Eels statement read on Thursday.

"After reviewing all relevant information, including the negative result of the B sample, the club has cleared Josh in relation to the issues raised following the incident.

"The NRL has also confirmed it will not be taking any further action, and the club now considers the matter closed.

"Separately, the club has informed Josh and his management that it will not be seeking to extend his current contract beyond the end of the 2027 season."

The Eels will keep the door ajar for Addo-Carr to see out his 2027 contract, but will not stand in his way if he secures a new contract with a rival club.

The 31-year-old is due back at pre-season training with the Eels next week, as his management looks to secure the flyer a future elsewhere.