The Unflappable Fullback: Why Dylan Edwards Deserves the NSW No. 1
There are some players who just ooze reliability, and Dylan Edwards, in my opinion, is one of them. Watching him perform week in and week out for the Penrith Panthers, it’s become increasingly clear that he’s not just a good player, but a truly elite one. The recent talk surrounding the NSW fullback spot for the upcoming State of Origin series has, thankfully, started to focus on the player who I believe has earned it unequivocally: Dylan Edwards.
More Than Just Stats
Sure, the numbers speak for themselves – 254 run metres and seven breaks against the Raiders is a phenomenal performance. But what truly sets Edwards apart, and what I find myself constantly impressed by, is his unwavering consistency. He doesn't just have a good game; he has a good game, then another, and another. This isn't about flash-in-the-pan brilliance; it's about a sustained level of excellence that is incredibly rare in any sport, let alone the high-octane world of rugby league. When the pressure mounts, especially in those crucial defensive moments, Edwards is the one you can count on to stand firm. It’s this mental fortitude, this refusal to buckle under pressure, that makes him such a valuable asset. Many fans might look at the flashy tries or the game-winning kicks, but for me, it's the subtle, often unseen, defensive efforts and the constant pressure he applies with the ball that truly define his impact.
A Cleary Endorsement
It's not just me singing his praises. The endorsement from the Cleary camp, both Ivan and Nathan, carries significant weight. Nathan’s description of Edwards as “super reliable” and a “great teammate” is spot on. But it was Ivan’s unprompted comments that really caught my attention. His assertion that if the Blues are considering taking Edwards out of the team, then they must be in a strong position themselves, is a masterful understatement. It’s a clear, yet subtly delivered, message to the selectors: don't mess with a winning formula. Ivan’s perspective, having coached Edwards extensively, offers a unique insight into his player's character and performance. He understands the pressure points of the fullback role and knows that Edwards navigates them with an almost uncanny calm. What I find particularly interesting is Ivan’s reflection on Edwards’ past struggles, particularly after shoulder surgery. It speaks volumes about Edwards' resilience and his commitment to overcoming adversity, rather than letting it define him. This season, he’s clearly been preparing with a renewed focus, and it’s paying dividends.
The Tedesco Conundrum: A Good Problem to Have?
Now, I know what some people might be thinking: what about James Tedesco? And that’s a fair question. Tedesco is, without a doubt, a legend of the game and has been an incredible servant for NSW. Ivan himself acknowledges that Tedesco is playing “incredible footy.” However, the narrative here, from my perspective, isn't about diminishing Tedesco's legacy. It’s about recognizing that form and current impact should dictate selection. The decision to bring Edwards into the fold in 2024, and his subsequent success in winning the series, cannot be overlooked. He hasn't put a foot wrong since. While Tedesco’s career is undeniably stellar, the present reality is that Edwards is operating at a level that is, in my view, simply too high to ignore. The fact that Edwards presides over the best defensive team in the competition for five of the last six years is a testament to his leadership and influence, a detail that often gets lost in the highlight reels.
Looking Ahead
Ultimately, for NSW coach Laurie Daley, this is indeed a “good problem to have.” It signifies the depth of talent within the state. However, as Ivan Cleary so eloquently put it, Edwards is “close to career best form.” In my personal opinion, when a player is performing at that peak, with such a proven track record of reliability and impact, the decision becomes clear. It’s about backing the player who is currently delivering consistently, who inspires confidence in his teammates, and who, frankly, seems almost unshakeable. The NSW fullback spot is a crucial one, and in Dylan Edwards, I believe they have the man to lead them to victory.
