Lomax Circus Spins On, Storm vs Eels Spice and Flanno Rules Out A Comp & PNG Dreams

James Hooper fronts the latest episode of Rugby League Insider on Fanatics TV with Matty Vautin and resident numbers guru Brandon Savage joining him for a wide-ranging discussion on the biggest talking points heading into the new NRL season.

The trio kick off by spruiking the rapidly growing Fanatics TV ecosystem, urging fans to subscribe and follow as the platform expands its mix of podcasts, articles and newsletters covering rugby league’s biggest stories. But the pleasantries don’t last long. The conversation quickly pivots into one of the hottest topics in the game right now: the increasingly messy future of Parramatta outside back Zac Lomax.

Zac Lomax: Rugby Union or Perth Bears Marquee?

Lomax’s flirtation with rugby union - and the fallout surrounding his contract situation has become a lightning rod across the code. Parramatta have reportedly made it clear they won’t release the former Dragons star without consent before the end of his deal, which runs through until 2028. But speculation continues to swirl about whether he could make a code switch before returning to the NRL. Vautin floated a theory that immediately caught the attention of the panel: “Maybe he goes to rugby for a year and then he becomes the marquee signing of the Perth Bears in 2027.” The suggestion reflects just how uncertain Lomax’s future has become as the NRL’s expansion plans take shape. Hooper said the saga was a reminder of how quickly a high-profile career can take unexpected turns. Once viewed as one of the brightest young backs in the game, Lomax’s time at St George Illawarra ended in frustration before his move to Parramatta. Now, another twist could still be around the corner.

Part of the complication stems from the financial layers involved in any potential deal. The panel discussed the costs and negotiations reportedly attached to Lomax’s situation, including legal bills, transfer payments and contract structures tied to other players. Ryan Matterson’s name also surfaced during the conversation, with discussion around the complexities of guaranteeing future contract years and the risk clubs take when investing heavily in big moves. Savage argued the Storm should consider committing longer term if they truly see value in the trade. The hosts pushed back, arguing that opportunity in the NRL should ultimately be earned. “Go down and earn it… train the house down. Get back into first grade.”

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Storm-Eels: 2009 Scars Fuel Round 1 Fire

While the Lomax drama dominated early discussion, attention soon shifted to one of the most fascinating Round 1 fixtures: Melbourne Storm against the Parramatta Eels at CommBank Stadium. The rivalry still carries emotional baggage from the 2009 grand final - a match later stripped from Melbourne following the club’s salary cap scandal. For many Parramatta figures, that controversy robbed the club of what should have been a historic premiership moment. The resentment hasn’t disappeared. According to Hooper, the lingering bitterness remains a quiet undercurrent whenever the clubs meet. The Storm, meanwhile, enter the season chasing a remarkable statistic - 23 consecutive Round 1 victories. Savage believes the streak could be under serious threat. “This is the year [Storm miss eight]. The competition is so close.” He pointed to Melbourne’s personnel changes and Parramatta’s emerging depth as reasons an upset could be brewing. But Hooper and Vautin were far less convinced. Melbourne’s spine - featuring Jahrome Hughes, Cameron Munster and Harry Grant - remains among the competition’s most dangerous combinations. For them, the Storm are still a near-certainty to finish inside the top four. Vautin went one step further with his prediction for the opener, tipping Melbourne to edge the contest in golden point.

Souths Bunnies: Wayne's Rejuvenation Charge

Another team generating plenty of intrigue is South Sydney, now under the guidance of coaching icon Wayne Bennett once again. At 77, Bennett is chasing a remarkable ninth premiership ring and the panel believes he still has the ability to galvanise a roster. The hosts praised Bennett’s ability to balance empathy with authority - a coaching style that has historically drawn the best out of superstar personalities. With Latrell Mitchell, Cody Walker and a host of attacking weapons available, the Rabbitohs could quickly re-emerge as contenders. “That left edge is the best in the game… Trell, Johnson, Fifita, and Cody.” Injuries remain the major concern, but if the squad can stay healthy, the Rabbitohs are widely viewed as a genuine top-eight prospect.

PNG Chiefs: Island Resort Pitch and Hit List

Expansion also entered the conversation, with the Papua New Guinea-based franchise targeting entry into the competition by 2028. The prospective club - informally dubbed the “PNG Chiefs” during discussion - has already begun assembling off-field personnel, including the appointment of Michael Chammas as general manager. The concept relies heavily on financial incentives to lure talent north. “If they offer you 1.5, you get the entire 1.5.” Tax-free contracts and unique lifestyle offerings are part of the pitch, though Vautin questioned whether relocating families to Port Moresby would prove a sticking point for many players. High-profile coaching names such as Bennett and even members of the Cleary family were floated as potential long-term targets. However, competition from established clubs and the influence of powerful player agents could make recruitment difficult.

Flannagan's Premiership Rule Out

St George Illawarra coach Shane Flanagan also came under the microscope after making a refreshingly candid admission about his club’s prospects this season. Flanagan conceded the Dragons are unlikely to challenge for the premiership immediately, instead focusing on building a competitive roster. “As long as we’re not bottom four.” Savage praised the honesty, arguing it sets realistic expectations for the club’s younger players as they develop in first grade. “Unrealistic expectations… hurt[s] younger stars.” The hosts debated whether such honesty could serve as reverse psychology - easing pressure on emerging players while the club quietly builds toward a stronger future. Either way, with a host of young forwards and developing talent in the squad, the Dragons appear firmly focused on long-term growth rather than short-term headlines. As the episode wrapped up, the panel teased upcoming SuperCoach analysis - where Savage boasts a previous top-25 finish - before signing off with a simple message: after months of speculation, previews and pre-season trials, rugby league is finally back.