Zac Lomax's $2.6m mistake laid bare as NRL star crowned winger of the year at Dally M

Zac Lomax's incredible season for the Dragons has been rewarded with being named Dally M winger of the year, but it once again raises the question over what prompted his move to the Eels in 2025. Jahrome Hughes was the talk of the night after eclipsing James Tedesco in a close battle for his maiden Dally M award. However, Lomax's achievement to be selected in the Dally M team of the season has also raised eyebrows within the NRL community. Earlier this year, Lomax put an end to months of speculation when the Dragons released him from his contract so he could join the Eels in 2025. Lomax was reportedly unhappy at playing on the wing for the Dragons and wanted to switch to his preferred centre position. And with rival clubs lurking, the Eels signed the star on a reported $2.6 million deal. This is a reported pay cut from the final year of his Dragons deal, where he was earning $850,000 per year. However, it could be hard to see Lomax moving away from the wing at the Eels after producing a career-best year. The winger was selected for NSW in State of Origin and was one of the Blues' best in a series victory. He scored 14 tries in 21 appearances at club level, which earned him a debut in the Dally M team of the year. Lomax would also be hard to look past for a debut for the Kangaroos this year in Mal Meninga's Australia team. This leaves incoming Parramatta Eels coach Jason Ryles with a huge decision to make. Circumstances have changed a lot since Lomax struck an agreement with the Eels in April, most notably with former coach Brad Arthur - the man who convinced Lomax to join - departing.