How quickly can an unverified social media claim become damaging? The Parramatta Eels have issued an emphatic defence of Dylan Walker, dismissing rumours about the veteran forward as completely false and warning that legal action could follow.
Eels chief executive Jim Sarantinos released a statement on Thursday after speculation began circulating online following Walker’s absence from Parramatta’s Round 23 team.
Eels condemn ‘completely false’ rumours
In an official Parramatta Eels statement, Sarantinos confirmed the club was aware of rumours and innuendo involving Walker.
“The claims are completely false and unfair on Dylan and his family,” Sarantinos said.
The Eels did not detail the allegations—and there is no responsible reason to repeat them—but made it clear that Walker had the full support of the club, his teammates and senior management.
Sarantinos said players should not be forced to defend themselves against baseless online speculation, describing the conduct of those spreading the claims as reckless and irresponsible.
“We are not going to stand for it,” he said.
The chief executive also rejected suggestions that those circulating the material were acting as genuine supporters or responsible journalists, drawing a clear distinction between legitimate discussion and the deliberate spread of damaging claims.
Parramatta considers legal action
The club confirmed it is now reviewing its options against those responsible for creating and distributing the rumours.
That warning represents a significant escalation from Parramatta, which has moved swiftly to prevent the allegations from gaining further traction.
Sarantinos also asked the media and the public to put the matter to rest, stressing the real-world effect that online speculation can have on players and their families.
The statement was issued after Walker was left out of Parramatta’s squad to face the South Sydney Rabbitohs at Allianz Stadium on Saturday night.
However, the Eels’ official Round 23 injury report states that Walker has been rested. There has been no suggestion from the club that his omission was disciplinary.
Walker rested for Rabbitohs clash
Walker had been regularly used through the middle of the field during the 2026 season, offering coach Jason Ryles experience and versatility at lock and from the interchange bench.
The 31-year-old’s absence leaves Parramatta without one of its most adaptable forwards for a difficult clash against South Sydney.
The Eels named Jack de Belin at lock, with Saxon Pryke, Junior Paulo, Teancum Brown and Kelma Tuilagi initially selected on the interchange bench.
Walker’s omission appears to be straightforward squad management rather than anything connected to the allegations being circulated online.
That distinction was made unambiguously by Parramatta’s statement: the rumours are false, Walker retains the club’s support and the Eels are considering action against those responsible.
Walker preparing for Leeds move
Walker is approaching the final months of his time at Parramatta after joining the club from the New Zealand Warriors during the 2025 season.
He originally signed with the Eels through to the end of 2026 but will continue his career in England next year.
Leeds Rhinos have signed Walker on a three-year contract beginning with the 2027 Super League season, reuniting him with former Parramatta coach Brad Arthur.
Walker has made more than 250 NRL appearances across spells with South Sydney, Manly, the Warriors and Parramatta. He was part of the Rabbitohs’ 2014 premiership-winning side and has also represented New South Wales and Australia.
Despite his impending departure, Parramatta’s response demonstrates that Walker remains a valued and supported member of the club.
The Eels could hardly have made their position clearer. Walker was rested, the rumours were false and those who continued spreading them could now face legal consequences.
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