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Melbourne Storm backrower Eli Katoa will miss the complete 2026 NRL season as he focuses on rehabilitation at home in Victoria, following coming back from a prolonged stay in Auckland where he underwent brain surgery.

What Happened

The 25-year-old athlete suffered three head impacts during a single afternoon while playing for the Tongan national team in a international fixture against the Kiwis. This led to seizures while off the field, requiring emergency medical attention.

A surgical procedure to address a brain bleed resulted in Katoa hospitalized and temporarily grounded to his club base.

The club announced recently that the forward has finally returned home and is on the mend, having also been briefly admitted to a local medical facility.

“His health and recovery are our number one priority,” stated Storm CEO Justin Rodski. “It is great to have him home safely and under the care of our medical staff and specialist physicians.”

Recovery and Rehabilitation

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

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

“In consultation with our medical team and neurology experts, Eli won't be back to practice this pre-season and is ruled out for the 2026 season,” he emphasized. “There is a long road ahead in his recovery, and his focus will be on returning to full health prior to contemplating any form of return to rugby league activities.”

Rodski concluded by saying that Katoa is a much loved and respected member of our team and organization, and that the Storm family will support him fully and support him through his rehabilitation period.

Broader Context

The NRL is currently finalizing its investigation into the events that led to Katoa’s surgery.

The talented player, who was selected for the league's best lineup at the recent Dally M awards, appeared to suffer a concussion during the warm-up for the international contest.

However, Katoa was allowed to play in the match and endured two more head impacts before coming off in the second half.

Katoa’s condition deteriorated quickly, and he needed medical oxygen on the sideline before being removed from the field on a stretcher.

The NRL has attempted to address concerns around head injuries in the sport in recent years, introducing stricter enforcement on dangerous contact and lengthening the mandatory recovery time for affected players.