Ryan Papenhuyzen has made waves with a bold statement regarding his rival, James Tedesco, while also drawing attention to Penrith Panthers fullback Dylan Edwards. The conversation surrounding fullbacks has heated up in the NRL, with Tedesco often considered the top-tier player in the position. However, Papenhuyzen’s remarks have shaken the discourse, leading to renewed debate over the hierarchy of elite fullbacks in the league.
Papenhuyzen, the Melbourne Storm star, has always been a humble figure, rarely drawn into controversies or outspoken rivalries. But his recent comments about Tedesco’s form and his comparison with Edwards have sparked fresh interest in the ongoing battle for fullback supremacy.
James Tedesco has long been heralded as the NRL’s premier fullback, a position he solidified through consistent performances with the Sydney Roosters and his leadership as captain of the NSW Blues in State of Origin. However, Papenhuyzen’s recent comments suggest that Tedesco may no longer hold the top spot in this highly competitive race.
In his statement, Papenhuyzen implied that while Tedesco remains a highly respected and skilled player, his form has somewhat waned, leaving room for others to stake their claim as the game’s best fullback. Papenhuyzen himself is eager to return to full fitness and resume his challenge for that title, but in his absence, he pointed out Dylan Edwards’ meteoric rise as a key contender for the crown.
Dylan Edwards has quietly emerged as one of the NRL’s most consistent and effective fullbacks. His role in Penrith’s back-to-back Premierships cannot be overstated, with his defensive prowess, relentless work ethic, and ability to link plays making him a crucial element of the Panthers’ recent success.
Papenhuyzen’s comments have highlighted the fact that Edwards, despite being less celebrated than Tedesco or Papenhuyzen himself, deserves more recognition for his contributions. He cut down Edwards’ critics, who often argue that the Panthers fullback doesn’t have the same flashy style as Tedesco or other high-profile fullbacks, suggesting that Edwards’ all-around game and consistency have made him one of the best in the business.
“Dylan’s game speaks for itself,” Papenhuyzen stated. “He’s not always in the headlines, but he delivers for Penrith week in, week out, and that’s what makes him such a special player.”
While Tedesco’s legacy in the NRL is undeniable, with accolades that include two Dally M Medals and multiple premierships, the debate over his current form is a reflection of how competitive the fullback position has become in recent years. Tedesco’s performances, particularly at the representative level, have drawn scrutiny, especially after NSW’s State of Origin series loss in 2023, where some questioned his ability to continue dominating as he once did.
Meanwhile, players like Papenhuyzen, Edwards, and even Kalyn Ponga have made strong cases for being considered among the elite. Papenhuyzen’s injury struggles have prevented him from consistently competing with Tedesco and Edwards in recent seasons, but his latest remarks suggest that, when fit, he sees himself as a contender.
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