NRL: Dragons deny lodging Packer contract

St George Illawarra have denied wanting to fast-track Russell Packer's return to the NRL. Photo / Getty Images.

St George Illawarra have denied wanting to fast-track Russell Packer's return to the NRL and claim a playing contract for the former New Zealand Test prop hasn't been lodged at Rugby League Central.

Packer was released from prison on Monday, having served 12 months of a two-year sentence for assaulting a man outside a Sydney bar in November 2013.

The 25-year-old joined Newcastle on a four-year contract at the start of last year but never got the chance to play for the club after his agreement was torn up following his incarceration.

Dragons coach Paul McGregor has publicly stated his desire to sign Packer, who would need to pass an assessment by the NRL's integrity unit before any paperwork can be ratified.

However, the joint-venture now say they're more interested in helping Packer get his life back on track before discussing any possible signing.

Packer has a close relationship with the Dragons' director of recruitment and retention Peter Mulholland, who joined the club from Newcastle late last year, and has been in constant contact with him since his release.

"The club has not sought to register a playing contract with the NRL, however, it has agreed to play a part in his rehabilitation through its established programs in education and welfare," a statement said.

"This is because of the long association Peter Mulholland has had with Russell and his family.

"Russell has a strong desire to spend time with his fiancee and two children, continue his education and seek employment in the community, ahead of any rugby league priority.

"Clearly, for Russell to return to the NRL he will need to demonstrate to the Dragons and the NRL that he is ready to have a contract registered."

Another former Knight, Danny Wicks, will return to the NRL this season with Parramatta after he was released from jail last year following his imprisonment for drug trafficking in 2011.

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-AAP