NRL: Packer close to returning to league

Russell Packer. File photo / Getty Images

Former jailbird Russell Packer has moved a step closer to returning to rugby league after meeting with the NRL.

NRL Integrity Unit chief Nick Weeks travelled to Wollongong on Tuesday to meet with Packer and St George Illawarra officials.

Packer is involved in community engagement work with the Dragons as they prepare him for a return to the NRL.

The 25-year-old former Warrior was released from prison in January after serving a one-year term for assault.

The Dragons are yet to lodge Packer's playing contract with the NRL.

Tuesday's meeting was to update the game's governing body on what activities Packer was involved with ahead of his probable return to the NRL.

The Dragons are desperate to boost their forward stocks with the inclusion of Packer in their much-maligned pack.

The former Kiwis international has been training with the Dragons' NSW Cup side but the NRL is unlikely to allow him to return to rugby league for several months.