Former NRL star Zac Lomax has turned down a potential move to the Melbourne Storm, despite Parramatta Eels reportedly giving approval for negotiations to continue, with the dual-code player choosing to honour his rugby union commitment with the Western Force.
The Melbourne Storm had been exploring a deal to bring Lomax back to rugby league after his departure from the Parramatta Eels. The move would have involved further roster changes, including discussions around Storm player Jack Howarth potentially moving to Parramatta as part of a swap arrangement.
However, the proposed return to the NRL collapsed after Lomax decided he did not want to break his current contract with the Western Force. The 26-year-old remains committed to his rugby union journey and his goal of pushing for selection in the Wallabies squad ahead of the 2027 Rugby World Cup, which will be hosted in Australia.
Lomax’s future has been the subject of significant attention since he left the Eels after securing a release to pursue opportunities outside the NRL. As part of that agreement, restrictions were placed on his ability to immediately join another NRL club without Parramatta’s approval.
Earlier attempts to move to Melbourne Storm created a legal dispute between the Eels and the player. Parramatta argued that the conditions of Lomax’s release needed to be respected, while the Storm explored options to bring the representative outside back into their squad. The matter was eventually resolved through a court agreement that maintained restrictions around his return to another NRL club.
Despite the failed Storm approach, Lomax has continued to impress since switching codes. Playing for the Western Force, he has shown flashes of his attacking ability, scoring tries and adapting to rugby union after years as one of the NRL’s most talented outside backs.
The decision represents a major commitment from Lomax, who is prioritising his rugby ambitions over an immediate return to the NRL. His focus remains on developing his skills in the 15-man code and earning international recognition.
For Melbourne Storm, the failed pursuit means the club will need to continue searching for outside-back options as they reshape their roster for future seasons. Meanwhile, Parramatta retains a level of influence over Lomax’s possible NRL return depending on future circumstances.
Lomax’s career has become one of the most interesting stories in Australian sport, highlighting the growing movement of athletes between rugby league and rugby union. His decision shows the increasing appeal of international rugby opportunities and the challenge NRL clubs face when competing for elite talent.
