The Penrith Panthers are grappling with a significant setback as their fullback depth has been severely tested in the early rounds of the 2025 NRL season. With Dylan Edwards sidelined for the season following shoulder surgery, the Panthers’ fullback position has become a critical concern. Recent injuries have further strained their options, leading to a reshuffling of their backline.
Edwards, a cornerstone of Penrith’s defensive prowess, underwent shoulder surgery in the offseason and was expected to return for the season opener in Las Vegas. However, complications arose, and he was ruled out for the remainder of the season . His absence left a void in the fullback role, which was temporarily filled by Dallin Watene-Zelezniak. Unfortunately, Watene-Zelezniak sustained a hamstring injury during a match against the Warriors, sidelining him for three weeks .
The situation worsened when Daine Laurie, another candidate for the fullback position, was ruled out due to an undisclosed injury . This left the Panthers with limited options in the backline, prompting coach Ivan Cleary to consider alternative strategies. One potential solution is moving Jarome Luai to fullback, a position he has experience in at the NSW Cup level. Luai’s versatility and recent performances could provide the Panthers with the depth they need during this challenging period.
As the Panthers aim to maintain their competitive edge, the fullback position remains a focal point. The team’s ability to adapt and overcome these challenges will be crucial in their pursuit of success in the 2025 NRL season.
