Star fullback Ryan Papenhuyzen is set to take a year off professional sport in 2026 after being granted an early release by the Storm, but could we see him back in the NRL?
The NRL world were shocked last month when Papenhuyzen requested a release with one year remaining on his deal.
However, according to Melbourne’s director of football Frank Ponissi, Papenhuyzen could make his way back to rugby league at some stage.
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Ponissi believes age is on Papenhuyzen’s side, with the 27-year-old wanting to explore other opportunities outside of the NRL in 2026.
It was rumoured he was heading to R360 but the rebel rugby union competition left several athletes in limbo by postponing their start date from 2026 to 2028.
Papenhuyzen has endured a tough run with injuries over the past few years which Ponissi noted, but the Storm administrator believes the fullback has “got so much more to offer” the NRL.
“I hope does (return to the NRL) … But in fairness to Paps, he’s gone through a fair bit over the last few years,” Ponissi told radio station SEN.
“H showed enormous resilience, but the stress and everything it took to get through all those injuries took its toll.
“He’s only 27 and he’s still got plenty left.
“If he re-energises himself in 12 months, we might see him back, which would be a great thing for the game.
“Having a year off might be the tonic for him to come back and continue.”
Ponissi didn’t say if a position at the Storm would be available for Papenhuyzen if he chooses to return. Melbourne are set to hand the No. 1 to the exciting Sua Fa’alogo.
If Papenhuyzen does return to the game in 2027, there are several teams who would be interested in signing him with the Dragons and Sharks atop that list.
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