Parramatta hooker Nathan Peats' knee injury is likely to be a season-ending one.

In a savage blow to the Eels' premiership campaign, the club confirmed Peats injured the anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee following Friday night’s loss against Penrith.

Finished for 2014: Nathan Peats' knee receives attention during Friday night's game against the Panthers. Credit:Getty Images

A statement on parraeels.com.au said: "Nathan had scans today and will see a specialist next week to determine the extent of the injury."

However, it's believed the former Rabbitoh won't play again this season.

Peats was a leading contender for the "buy of the year" mantle and was earmarked as a potential replacement if Wests Tigers hooker Robbie Farah didn't recover in time to represent NSW in Origin I.

After struggling for game time at South Sydney while playing behind New Zealand star Issac Luke, Peats has proven himself a quality NRL rake capable of playing the entire 80 minutes. In the opening third of the season he has established himself as arguably the Eels' most important player after co-captain Jarryd Hayne. The setback will test the club's depth, with youngster Kaysa Pritchard - the brother of Canterbury and New Zealand international Frank - likely to be considered by coach Brad Arthur.

In a further injury blow to the wooden-spooners, fellow forward Darcy Lussick will also undergo further scans in coming days to determine the extent of the injury to his kneecap.