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Melbourne Storm backrower Eli Katoa will miss the entire 2026 NRL season as he continues his recovery at home in Victoria, following coming back from a extended period in New Zealand where he underwent a neurosurgical procedure.

What Happened

The 25-year-old suffered three head impacts in a single afternoon while playing for Tonga in a Pacific Championship match versus New Zealand. Subsequently, he experienced seizures while off the field, requiring emergency medical attention.

A medical operation to relieve bleeding on the brain resulted in the player in the hospital and initially unable to travel to his club base.

The club announced this week that the forward has now come back and is recovering, having also been briefly admitted to a Melbourne hospital.

“His health and recovery remain our number one priority,” said Storm CEO Justin Rodski. “It is great to have him back home and under the care of our medical staff and local specialists.”

The Road to Recovery

Rodski noted that the player is improving each day and is looking forward to continuing his rehabilitation from home.

However, the CEO stated that there is no timeframe for Katoa’s recovery or a potential return to training.

“After discussions with our medical team and neuro specialists, Katoa will not return to training during the preseason and is ruled out for the 2026 season,” he emphasized. “He has a lengthy recovery process in his recovery, and his focus will be on returning to full health before considering a potential comeback to training.”

Rodski concluded by saying that Eli is a much loved and respected part of the squad and club, and that the entire club will support him fully and support him through his rehabilitation period.

Broader Context

The National Rugby League is currently finalizing its investigation into the circumstances that resulted in Katoa’s surgery.

The talented player, who was selected for the league's best lineup at the annual awards ceremony, seemed to sustain a concussion during the warm-up for the Pacific Championship match.

Despite this, Katoa was allowed to play in the game and endured two additional blows to the head before being substituted in the later stages.

His state worsened rapidly, and he needed medical oxygen beside the field before being taken off on a stretcher.

The NRL has sought to tackle concerns around concussions in the sport in recent seasons, implementing crackdowns on high tackles and expanding the mandatory recovery time for injured athletes.