“He's ready”: Cameron Smith supports Ryles' appointment as Parramatta coach

After an extensive and lengthy process, the Parramatta Eels have finally unveiled their new coach and have announced Jason Ryles to a four-year deal which will begin at the start of the 2025 season.

Ryles has long been tipped to become an NRL head coach after lengthy stints with the Melbourne Storm and Sydney Roosters as an assistant. The 45-year-old beat out other fancied candidates Josh Hannay and Dean Young to claim the top job.

Cameron Smith, who was a former teammate and also played under Ryles, has given his tick of approval and believes he will thrive as Parramatta coach.

“I am very happy for Jason,” Smith told SEN 1170 Breakfast.

“I played alongside him at the end of his career and when he took over as an assistant coach at the Melbourne Storm.

“I have spent a lot of time with him as the Melbourne forward coach and the main assistant to Craig Bellamy.

“He has such a passion for the game and I love his commitment towards working with younger players.

“He loves developing their skills to become consistent first graders (and) what stands out is that he is always looking at ways to improve himself.

“He has had quality time with quality organisations and quality people.

“He has taken those skills and made his own fist of coaching.

“People also forget about what he has achieved in the game as a player.

“He has played State of Origin and at international level. He knows what it takes to be a consistent footballer.

“I think that’s what gave him a head start over (Hannay and Young).

“Jason is more than ready and he’s now got to take on the challenge of being the head coach over being an assistant.

“He’s done his apprenticeship and he’s ready to do it.

“I’m excited to see what is to come for the Eels and Ryles’ coaching in the future.”

The Eels currently sit in 16th on the NRL ladder and face the Gold Coast Titans in Round 19.