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NRL Star Zac Lomax’s Rugby Union Return Sparks Brumbies Hopes

The rugby world has been buzzing this week with news that former NRL star Zac Lomax is back in the frame for a return to Super Rugby, specifically targeting a deal with the Brumbies. Reports from The Canberra Times confirm that Lomax, who had a high-profile but ultimately failed move to the Melbourne Storm last year, is now being seriously considered by Australian rugby’s top-tier side.

This development isn’t just about one player—it reflects shifting dynamics across both codes of rugby in Australia. With NRL clubs increasingly treating players as “currency” for trades and negotiations, the movement between league and union is becoming more fluid than ever before. And when a player like Lomax, who once scored tries at fullback for Parramatta Eels, decides to pivot back to rugby union, it raises questions about loyalty, opportunity, and the future of dual-code talent.

The Story So Far: From League Glory to Union Ambition

Zac Lomax burst onto the professional scene in 2018 after making his NRL debut with the Wests Tigers. But it was his time at Parramatta Eels from 2020–2023 that cemented his reputation as a powerful runner and reliable defender. Standing at 6'2" and known for his strong tackling and line-breaking ability, Lomax became a fan favourite during his three seasons with the Eels.

His career took an unexpected turn in 2024 when he entered contract talks with the Melbourne Storm, one of the NRL’s powerhouse teams. However, those discussions collapsed unexpectedly. While official reasons weren’t disclosed, sources cited internal disagreements over contract structure and playing time. Instead of joining Melbourne, Lomax opted out of his Eels deal early and explored other options—including a potential return to rugby union.

According to verified reports from The Canberra Times, Lomax has already trained with the Brumbies and impressed coaches with his physicality and rugby IQ. The club, based in his hometown of Canberra, sees him as a viable option to bolster their backline depth ahead of the 2025 Super Rugby Pacific season.

Why This Matters: Dual-Code Movement Reaches Fever Pitch

Lomax’s situation isn’t unique. Over the past decade, several NRL stars have made successful transitions into Super Rugby or even international sevens rugby. Think Sonny Bill Williams, Lote Tuqiri, or Israel Folau—all household names who crossed codes with varying degrees of success.

But what makes Lomax’s case different—and newsworthy—is the speed and scale of the transition. Unlike past dual-code athletes who often left rugby league behind for good, modern players are staying active across both sports. That’s partly due to financial incentives (higher salaries in NRL), but also because unions are actively recruiting league talent.

In fact, Rugby Australia has launched targeted recruitment programs aimed at luring experienced NRL forwards and backs into Super Rugby. Lomax fits this profile perfectly: he’s young (just 27), fit, and brings proven big-game experience.

However, not everyone is convinced this trend is healthy for either sport. Critics argue that treating players as “bargaining chips” undermines long-term development. As highlighted in a recent The Age article, NRLPA representative Matterson condemned clubs for using player movements purely for short-term gain:

“Players aren’t bargaining chips,” Matterson stated. “When deals fall through or contracts are traded like assets, it erodes trust and creates instability for families and careers.”

This sentiment echoes broader concerns within both rugby codes about player welfare and sustainable growth.

Timeline of Key Events

Meanwhile, Fox Sports reported in early December that Lomax faced criticism from some quarters for allegedly being “not serious about rugby league” following his abrupt departure from the Storm saga. Former NRL figures questioned whether he truly committed to any one code—a claim Lomax denied, stating he simply wanted more opportunities to play regular first-grade rugby.

What Does Success Look Like for Lomax?

For Lomax, a successful return hinges on performance and adaptability. Rugby union demands different skills than league: more passing, set-piece awareness, and structured attack patterns. While his athleticism gives him an edge, he’ll need to sharpen his handling under pressure and improve his kicking game.

If he lands with the Brumbies, he could slot into multiple positions—fullback, wing, or even centre—depending on injury cover and form. Coach Joe Schmidt, known for building cohesive backlines, may see Lomax as a key piece in expanding Canberra’s attacking threat.

But beyond personal ambition, Lomax’s journey symbolises a larger shift in Australian sport. Clubs are no longer siloed by code; they’re competing globally for elite talent. And fans? They’re getting to watch the same athletes dominate multiple arenas—something that wasn’t common just a few years ago.

Broader Implications: Is This Good for Rugby?

The influx of NRL stars into union comes with pros and cons. On the upside, union sides gain instant competitiveness and crowd appeal. Matches featuring ex-NRL players often draw bigger TV audiences and sell-out crowds.

On the downside, there’s concern about depth erosion in the NRL. If top-tier players keep jumping ship mid-season or leaving early for union deals, it destabilizes team structures and reduces parity across the competition.

Moreover, union’s reliance on imported league talent risks stunting local development pathways. Young Australian union prospects might feel pressured to switch codes earlier than necessary, missing out on foundational skills only rugby union can provide.

Still, Rugby Australia insists these cross-code moves benefit the overall game. “We welcome talented individuals who want to contribute to our sport,” said a spokesperson last month. “As long as contracts are honoured and transitions are managed responsibly, we see this as a positive evolution.”

Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Lomax and the Codes?

With Super Rugby kicking off in February 2025, all eyes will be on whether the Brumbies officially announce Lomax’s signing in the coming weeks. Rumours suggest a one-year deal worth around $150,000 AUD—well below NRL wages but still lucrative compared to most domestic union contracts.

If successful, Lomax could become a trailblazer for future dual-code signings. Imagine more NRL rookies testing waters in union during pre-season or mid-season breaks. The lines between codes would blur even further.

But for now, one thing is clear: Zac Lomax’s story is far from over. Whether he dons green and gold again or returns to the NRL next season, his journey highlights the evolving landscape of professional rugby in Australia.

And for fans in Canberra, seeing a homegrown talent potentially return to the Brumbies jersey would be nothing short of poetic.

Sources:
- The Canberra Times: "‘We're open’: Lomax back in Brumbies frame after NRL star's failed Storm move"
- Fox Sports: "‘Not serious about rugby league’: Exiled star slammed over Storm snub as swap players named"
- The Age: "Players aren’t bargaining chips: Matterson, RLPA criticise clubs using him as currency"