The NSW Blues are blessed with depth at fullback and there are a handful of superstars who could be successful in the number one jersey in the State of Origin arena. For years James Tedesco held onto the jersey as he captained the side, but Michael Maguire made the brave decision last season to go in a different direction giving Dylan Edwards a shot at fullback for NSW. Others like Tom Trbojevic and Latrell Mitchell have been mainstays for NSW when fit, but have played elsewhere in the backline due to their versatility. Let’s break down the pros and cons for each option Laurie Daley has at his disposal.

Dylan Edwards

Pros: Edwards has been the most consistent fullback for the last few years and has provided a reliable skillset from which Penrith have been able to build their dynasty. He proved exactly why he deserved to usurp Tedesco in his origin games last year with solid performances. You know exactly what your going to get from Dylan Edwards and he certainly won’t let you down from a defensive perspective.

Cons: Edwards is part of the Panthers team which is uncharacteristically struggling in 2025. As such he is probably feeling a little less confident with his overall game as he has done in recent years. Edwards also offers a little less attacking flair compared to some of the other options.

James Tedesco

Pros: The former Blues captain has been there and done that, so he has the experience and leadership which goes a long way in State of Origin. For many years he was one of NSW’s best players and certainly hasn’t dropped out of the conversation since Edwards took his spot last year. His work rate and supporting runs through the middle of the park make him an ideal origin player in which there is plenty of fatigue.

Cons: Whilst James Tedesco’s performances for the Roosters have still been rock solid there is a general sense that the Blues are moving forward towards the next generation. Tedesco has plenty to give, but has probably had his time given the abundance of other younger, more energetic options Laurie Daley has to pick from.

Ryan Papenhuyzen

Pros: Papenhuyzen is arguably the form fullback of the competition. His performance against the Tigers on the weekend showed just how deadly he can be with his ability to break through the line could be deadly in the Origin arena. There are few fullbacks which have the ability to step, change direction and accelerate like Papenhuyzen.

Cons: The knock against Papenhuyzen has always been his smaller build compared to many other fullbacks in the competition. Whilst he certainly doesn’t shy away from the physical component of the game it is true that he lacks the size and brute power which comes in handy when defending on the line and making those tough kick returns.

Latrell Mitchell

Pros: Latrell has returned from injury this season in top form and looks to be as fit as ever. Wayne Bennett has certainly been a blessing for him and he is playing with plenty of confidence. Latrell is one of the best players to step up in clutch moments and plays with plenty of passion. There’s a chance of seeing some magic happen every time he touches the ball.

Cons: At his best Latrell is almost unstoppable, but there has been a tendency for him to go missing in games or put in an error riddled performance. He’s also victim of his versatility and there is an argument that he is better playing in the centres for the Blues where he doesn’t have to work so hard defensively.

Tom Trbojevic

Pros: Trbojevic can be one of the most lethal attacking players in the NRL when he is on top of his fitness. There are few players as dangerous with the ball in hand that causes so much havoc for defensive lines. He has the ability to play at pace and is just as damaging when running the ball himself or creating space for his teammates.

Cons: The biggest problem for Tom Trobjevic is his hamstrings or more broadly his fitness. For far too long he has been pushing through when his body isn’t 100% and that just takes to edge out of his game. Whilst he always works hard he is gaining a bit of a reputation for being fragile and if he was to be given a chance as NSW number one he would need to be completely confident in his body.