Parramatta Eels Winger Josh Addo-Carr Allegedly Tests Positive For Cocaine

Police reportedly stopped Addo-Carr in Newtown, Sydney, for the random roadside test on Friday night.
After Canterbury terminated his contract in 2024, Addo-Carr accepted a $682 fine and a three-month driving ban without contesting the matter in court.
Addo-Carr’s Eels contract was initially a one-year deal with a club option for 2026, which Parramatta exercised, before later extending his contract through the end of 2027.
The 31-year-old has scored 27 tries in 45 matches for Parramatta since joining the club at the start of last season.
Before the latest allegation, Addo-Carr had represented the Kangaroos in the Ashes series in England and was considered a possible selection for the Rugby League World Cup squad.
Parramatta Eels winger Josh Addo-Carr allegedly tested positive for cocaine during a random roadside drug test in Sydney on Friday night, marking the second such allegation in his NRL career. The Guardian reported the 31-year-old was stopped by police in Newtown for routine testing. The Eels have notified the NRL Integrity Unit and are cooperating with the investigation while providing welfare support to Addo-Carr and his family.
This allegation comes less than two years after Canterbury terminated Addo-Carr's contract in 2024 following similar positive cocaine tests. The winger accepted a $682 fine and a three-month driving ban without contesting the matter in court. His current situation could jeopardize his $682,000 Parramatta contract, which was recently extended through 2027 after the club exercised its option for 2026. Serious About Rugby League noted his NRL career now hangs in the balance pending the NRL Integrity Unit's decision.
Addo-Carr's latest allegation mirrors circumstances from his 2024 termination by Canterbury. In that incident, he tested positive for cocaine during both roadside and secondary oral drug tests. Rather than pursue legal action, he settled by paying the fine and accepting the driving suspension. UK Headtopics reported this second alleged positive occurred during routine police testing, raising serious questions about his choices off the field.
Addo-Carr's management stated he is seeking professional support and prioritizing his health and wellbeing. The Eels declined further comment until the matter is resolved, though the club is providing welfare assistance to the player and his family. At 31 years old, Addo-Carr faces a critical juncture in both his personal life and professional career. Professional support could help address underlying issues if substance misuse is confirmed.
Before the latest allegation, Addo-Carr had established himself as a key contributor for Parramatta. He scored 27 tries in 45 matches since joining the Eels at the start of last season. The winger represented the Australian Kangaroos in the Ashes series in England and was considered a possible selection for the Rugby League World Cup squad. His on-field form stood in sharp contrast to his off-field struggles.
The NRL Integrity Unit must now investigate the allegation and determine whether disciplinary action is warranted. No final decision has been announced. Given the precedent set by Canterbury's termination in 2024, Addo-Carr faces the real prospect of another contract cancellation and potential league-wide suspension. The outcome will depend on whether the positive test is confirmed and how the NRL views his repeated involvement with prohibited substances.
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