Ryan Papenhuyzen leaves Storm - immediately

The Melbourne Storm have confirmed the bombshell news that star fullback Ryan Papenhuyzen has been released from the final year of his contract, effective immediately.

The 26-year-old Clive Churchill Medallist will take time away from rugby league to consider his future, following several injury-hit seasons that derailed one of the most exciting careers in the modern game.

Papenhuyzen’s Statement

“I’ve loved my time at Melbourne Storm,” Papenhuyzen said.
“I’ve enjoyed close to a decade of incredible memories and experiences in the purple jersey.
Playing in front of the Storm fans every week has made my time in Melbourne something I’ll never forget.”

The fullback expressed his gratitude to the club for allowing him the space to step back from the NRL.

“I want to thank the club for their understanding and support throughout this process.
I also want to thank my teammates, coaches and staff for all their love and support - it’s been a privilege playing footy and working with you.”

Storm Pay Tribute

Storm Chairman Matt Tripp praised Papenhuyzen’s resilience and contribution to the club over his nine-year tenure.

“Ryan has shown great character and resilience throughout his time at our club, and we’ve loved watching him develop into the player and person that he is today.

We’re obviously disappointed that his time at Storm has come to an end, but we respect his decision to take some time away from professional sport.

We thank Ryan for his enormous contribution to our club. He departs as a premiership player and Clive Churchill Medallist with 113 games to his name.”

Papenhuyzen finishes his Storm career with 113 games, 77 tries, 160 goals and 635 career points, ranking sixth on the club’s all-time scorers list.

Future in R360?

Papenhuyzen has been heavily linked to R360, the breakaway rugby competition set to launch next year.
His decision to step away from the NRL comes amid speculation he could make the switch to the rebel code in 2026 - a move that would send shockwaves across both sports.

This release also frees up significant salary cap space for Melbourne, coming just days after the exit of Nelson Asofa-Solomona.

What’s Next for Melbourne?

The Storm appear well prepared for life after Papenhuyzen, with Sua Faalogo signed through to 2028 and expected to take over the No.1 jersey full-time.
The club has also been linked to North Queensland young gun Jaxon Purdue, who remains off contract beyond 2025.

It’s another major shake-up in what’s been a busy week for the NRL player market — Jonah Pezet has also departed the club, signing with Parramatta before joining the Brisbane Broncos on a long-term deal.

From Dark Days to a Comeback

Papenhuyzen’s journey has been one of the most inspirational in recent NRL history. After suffering a shattered kneecap in 2022, he fought his way back to the top level, returning in 2023 in what many considered one of the great comebacks.

“There were some dark days for sure,” he reflected earlier this year.

In 2025, he hit strong numbers for tackle busts (85) and offloads (20), while averaging 127 metres per game - proving he could still perform at an elite level despite the setbacks.

The Instagram Post That Said It All

Three weeks ago, Papenhuyzen sparked concern among fans with a cryptic social media message that, in hindsight, hinted at this decision:

“Real peace is an inside job.
It comes from understanding that the game, and this life, will never go exactly as you plan...
You gave it everything you had.
That’s always a victory.”

Legacy in Purple

Since debuting in 2019, Papenhuyzen became part of the Storm’s “Big Four” alongside Cameron Munster, Harry Grant, and Jahrome Hughes - the backbone of a dominant Melbourne era.
He was instrumental in their 2020 premiership victory, claiming the Clive Churchill Medal for best on ground in the grand final.

His speed, fearlessness, and game-breaking ability made him one of the most watchable players of the past decade — and a fan favourite both in Melbourne and across the NRL.

The Casual Athlete Take

It’s the end of an era in Melbourne. Papenhuyzen’s release might sting, but it’s also a human reminder of the toll professional sport can take - and the courage it takes to step away on your own terms.

Whatever comes next, whether it’s rugby or reflection, Ryan Papenhuyzen leaves the Storm as a premiership winner, comeback story, and one of the better fullbacks of his generation.