The 2026 NRL season is bringing more than just new players and rivalries, it’s also bringing a rethink in how teams build their backlines. Across the competition, coaches are starting to shake up traditional roles, choosing smaller, more mobile fullbacks while shifting their big-name stars into the centres.

For years, the fullback has been seen as the ultimate attacking weapon. Players like James Tedesco, Tom Trbojevic, and Latrell Mitchell have made the position one of the most important on the field. But as the game speeds up and defensive systems become more demanding, some clubs are rethinking what kind of player they want in that No. 1 jersey.

Instead of focusing purely on attacking flair, coaches are now prioritizing agility, defensive coverage, and endurance. Smaller fullbacks can move faster across the field, close down attacking kicks, and provide better support in scramble defence. Meanwhile, moving the stronger, more powerful players into the centres lets them get their hands on the ball in attacking sets without carrying the heavy defensive load that comes with playing at the back.

South Sydney were one of the first clubs to make the switch. They’ve given young gun Jye Gray the fullback role, shifting Latrell Mitchell into the centres. Gray, while not as imposing physically as Mitchell, brings speed, energy, and tight defensive organisation to the back. His agility allows him to cover kicks and plug defensive holes far more efficiently.

For Mitchell, the move to centre could unlock even more attacking impact. He’ll spend more time closer to the action, engaging defenders and creating opportunities for his outside men. It also reduces his defensive running workload, helping him stay fresher for key attacking moments. The Rabbitohs believe this balance could bring the best out of both players.

The Dolphins followed a similar path and have reportedly handed the fullback spot to Trai Fuller, another smaller, dynamic player known for his mobility and work rate. That will allow Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow to shift into the centres in a move that aims to unleash his explosive pace in more direct attacking situations.

Fuller’s positional play and safe hands give the Dolphins extra stability at the back, while Tabuai-Fidow can focus on breaking tackles and finishing line breaks rather than defending long kicks or fielding bombs all game. It’s a clever adjustment that keeps the team balanced in both defence and attack.

At Manly, the puzzle is similar and the move has been discussed for a long time with Lehi Hopoate shifting to fullback and Tom Trbojevic to centre. Trbojevic’s injury history has been a constant concern for the club, and the move might help preserve his fitness.

Hopoate, meanwhile, has shown confidence under the high ball and quick acceleration on kick returns, making him well suited to the modern demands of fullback play. If this shift happens, Manly could have a more durable spine while keeping Trbojevic’s attacking brilliance in prime territory.

Across the Tasman, the New Zealand Warriors are considering a similar reshuffle. Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad has been the team’s reliable fullback, but the rise of young Taine Tuaupiki gives coach Andrew Webster options. Tuaupiki’s speed and footwork make him a natural fit for the fullback role, while CNK’s strength and experience could translate well to a centre position. It’s not confirmed yet, but the Warriors are clearly exploring how to make the most of both players’ skill sets.

This growing trend tells us a lot about how the NRL is changing. The modern fullback needs to be a defensive anchor as much as an attacking weapon , quick, smart, and reliable under pressure. By freeing up their bigger stars to play closer to the ball in the centres, clubs are trying to strike the right balance between endurance, defence, and attacking punch.