Papenhuyzen Shocks League World, Steps Away From $900K Contract
A stunning turn of events has seen NRL superstar Ryan Papenhuyzen announce he will not return to the field in 2026, walking away from a lucrative contract with the Melbourne Storm. The 27-year-old’s decision comes after the postponement of a planned new rugby competition, leaving him seeking a different path for the next chapter of his life.
Papenhuyzen, who commanded a salary exceeding $900,000 per year, was widely expected to join the rebel rugby competition, R360, in the New Year. However, with the league’s launch now delayed until 2028, the star fullback has opted for a gap year and a period of self-discovery.
“I want to do something a bit different and throw myself into something I’m a bit uncomfortable with, and see if I enjoy that,” Papenhuyzen explained to Code Sports. “Life’s only short. If I’m my 80-year-old self right looking back right now, what’s something I would regret not doing? It’s probably taking a chance and not doing something else. That’s been the decision making process.”
The postponement of R360 appears to be the catalyst for this unexpected move. According to Papenhuyzen, once the delay was announced, the focus shifted to exploring alternative avenues. “Once (the R360 delay) came out, everyone said, ‘what are you going to do now?’ The plan was to have a year off and try a few different things. The plan doesn’t change for me, maybe more for Lomax.”
While the future remains uncertain, Papenhuyzen has already begun exploring new interests, reportedly taking up mentoring to support young athletes with the mental aspects of professional sport. He remains supportive of the R360 concept, viewing the delay as a “only a positive” for the competition’s long-term success.
The speculation surrounding his future has been intense, with Papenhuyzen describing the rumors as a “circus.” He clarified that he is not currently signed with another team, despite widespread reports linking him to the St. George Illawarra Dragons. “All my mates and family think I’ve signed something somewhere,” he said. “I’m like, ‘I’m just not playing’. I know I’ll miss it at some point, but I’m really enjoying this stuff now. I’ll use (next) year as a blank canvas and I might find another interest, and that could be the new career.”
He emphasized the possibility of a return to professional sport, stating, “I’ve been in rugby league for 10 years now, sport for 10 years … why not try something else and pivot? There’s always an option to come back.” Touch football is one avenue he is considering exploring.
Dragons Secure Bulldogs Playmaker
In separate news, the St. George Illawarra Dragons have bolstered their playmaking depth by signing young gun Joseph O’Neill from the Canterbury Bulldogs. The 22-year-old, who won a Jersey Flegg premiership with Canterbury in 2023, has signed a development contract with the Dragons after making 42 reserve grade appearances.
“Joseph is a talented, young player and we’re excited to be able to bring him to the Dragons,” said Dragons coach Shane Flanagan in a club statement. “He’s had plenty of success coming through the grades at the Bulldogs and is eager to continue to prove himself. He’s hard-working and he’s passionate about his footy. He provides us with some more valuable depth in the halves. It’ll be good for him to meet the rest of the squad and really hit the ground running this preseason.”
The Bulldogs confirmed O’Neill’s departure on Wednesday, wishing him and his family all the best for the future. This move adds further intrigue to the Dragons’ preparations for the upcoming season.
