NRL: Melbourne Storm star Ryan Papenhuyzen has declared he's retired from the game
Ryan Papenhuyzen could make a stunning mid-season return to the NRL, two rugby league greats with a history of head knocks have predicted. Watch the 2026 NRL Pre-season series plus the All-Star matches LIVE and ad-break free during play on FOX LEAGUE, available on Kayo Sports | New to Kayo?Papenhuyzen’s Melbourne release was one of the biggest shocks of the off-season, with the Storm fullback revealing he was “rattled” by the impacts of a concussion he copped during a Round 27 clash against Brisbane.
WHAT'S GAMBLING REALLY COSTING YOU? Set a deposit limit. For Free and confidential support call 1800 858 858 or visit gamblinghelponline.org.au. It caused him to miss the Storm’s first finals game, and the 27-year-old has since declared himself “retired” despite having been linked with now-postponed rugby union competition R360. “I think before June 30, Ryan Papenhuyzen announces he is coming back to the NRL,” Bulldogs great James Graham said on Graham is one of the league’s biggest advocates for concussion support and making the sport safer, with the England star enduring more than 100 concussions across his career. Whilst he understands the impacts of head injuries both mentally and physically, Graham is sure that Papenhuyzen won’t be able to resist a return to the NRL – perhaps as soon as this year. “I know he spoke about the concussion and I understand the impact and the severity, but I think there might just be a bit of an itch there. I just see him back,” Graham said.“We all know fullback is definitely in the top two most important positions, some sides more than others. If someone is out of form, injured, there is going to be some serious cash thrown his way.”Triple premiership winner Luke Keary weighed in on the idea, also believing Papenhuyzen could make a quick return.“I reckon he will have three or four months then the itch will come and teams will be looking.” Keary also faced many head knocks, with concussions playing a major role in his 2024 retirement in 2024; though that was at age 32, and he believes Papenhuyzen could be tempted to return. From one great fullback to another, Keary also tipped the return of former Roosters premiership teammate Joey Manu from rugby union. Following his departure in 2025, Manu appeared done with NRL, taking his talents to Japanese rugby club Toyota Verblitz before later joining the French Top 14 league, where he currently plays with Racing 92.“I think Joey Manu will end up back in the NRL,” Keary said on The Bye Round. “Not saying the Roosters at all, but I just think we might see him back-end of the year.” Graham said Manu could end up in either New Zealand or Sydney, but expects the Roosters would be the most natural fit. “The Roosters look like they may need some outside backs or maybe on the wing,” Graham said. That’s the obvious home.” Manu’s current contract runs until the end of 2027. The Kiwi rugby league International has long discussed a desire to play Test rugby for the All Blacks, yet is not eligible given that he is not contracted to a New Zealand club. Having left the Roosters on good terms, and with former teammate and new member of the Tricolours coaching staff Keary talking up his return, Manu seems most likely to return to the Sydney side if the 29-year old were to make an NRL comeback.
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