Reagan Campbell-Gillard has landed on the Gold Coast after being shown the door by incoming Parramatta coach Jason Ryles.
The rookie mentor took over after Brad Arthur’s long-term reign came to a disappointing end as the Eels sank without a trace in 2024.
RCG was a rare bright light during the campaign with the big forward earning the Ken Thornett Medal for being the club’s best player.
However, his displays in the engine room failed to convince Ryles that he had a future at Parra as the veteran was allowed to leave one year before his contract came to an end.
Reagan Campbell-Gillard details Parramatta Eels exit
“I’m not going to go into too much details, but I said to Ryles, ‘Tell me how it is’ and he felt like he wanted to go in a different direction,” Campbell-Gillard said while sporting Titans colours for the first time in pre-season.
“I understand that. It’s a business and everyone needs to understand that as well.
Sh*t happens – that’s just rugby league and how the business works.
“They didn’t want me, but that’s alright. I’m fully okay with that and I’ve landed up here at a great spot on the Gold Coast.”
RCG inked an extended deal to join Des Hasler’s side and was added to an already imposing forward pack.
“At my age to secure my future, that was sort of main thing,” the 31-year-old said.
“The Titans came in with the three years, and at my age, three years is a lifetime.”
Queensland representative duo Tino Fa’asuamaleaui and Moeaki Fotuaika will no doubt be aided by the arrival of the experienced prop.
I’ve come to take the pressure off Tino,” Campbell-Gillard declared after being reunited with his former Kangaroos teammate.
“Tino’s coming back from an injury and it’s a bad one as well.
“So, with myself, Moey and the other boys on the bench like Jaimin [Jolliffe], I think we can take the pressure off Tino.
“I’m happy to do that role and I’ll do it for him.”
