Jason Ryles has been granted an early release from his contract at the Storm ahead of his move to Parramatta next season.
As first revealed by 9News and The Sydney Morning Herald reporter Michael Chammas, the 45-year-old was eyeing off an early exit from the club and Melbourne officials have now confirmed the former State of Origin enforcer would finish his tenure.
Ryles was signed as an assistant until the end of the year, but will leave the Storm at the end of the week to focus on his move to the Eels.
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“On behalf of everyone at the Melbourne Storm, we congratulate Jason on his appointment to senior coach at the Eels,” chief executive Justin Rodski said.
Jason Ryles is expected to leave the Storm in the coming weeks. Getty
“Given the significance of this opportunity for Jason, we have agreed an early release is in the best interest of both parties.
“Jason returned to Storm for the 2024 season, and although only back at the club for a short time, he has had an immediate positive impact on our players, football department and broader club.
“Jason is a quality person and coach, we thank him for his contribution in 2024 and wish him, his wife Alana and his family all the best for the future.”
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One of the first orders of business for Ryles will be convincing young gun Blaize Talagi to remain in the blue and gold long-term.
Talagi has received interest from the Dragons, Dolphins and Knights after a stellar rookie season and remains unsigned at Parramatta.
The early departure of Ryles isn’t expected to derail Melbourne’s premiership aspirations, with Craig Bellamy having a plethora of other assistants.
Trent Barrett will remain at the helm for the Eels for the rest of this season as the interim head coach.
