Former jailbird Russell Packer will not be allowed to return to the NRL this year.

Packer has been cleared by the NRL to resume training with St George Illawarra, but has been told he has been banned from the playing first grade.

Instead he will play NSW Cup for the remainder of 2015.

Dragons boss Peter Doust said the club were considering their position on the matter.

“”The club will be considering the NRL’s advice, as will Russell and his family,” he said.

“We will need to clarify additional matters, to then be able to discuss with appropriate stakeholders and advisors.”

Packer was released from jail in January after serving a one-year term for a vicious assault.