The Storm have granted superstar fullback Ryan Papenhuyzen an immediate release from the final year of his NRL contract.<\/p>\n
The 27-year-old\u2019s contract was set to expire at the end of the 2026 season with an option also available for 2027, but he will depart the Melbourne club to \u201cconsider his future\u201d.<\/p>\n
\u201cPapenhuyzen, who has a year to run on his current contract, has decided to take a break away from the game to consider his future,\u201d the Storm\u2019s statement read.<\/p>\n
Watch every game of the 2025 Pacific Championships LIVE on FOX LEAGUE, available on Kayo | New to Kayo? Join now and get your first month for just $1<\/a>.<\/p>\n WHAT’S GAMBLING REALLY COSTING YOU? Set a deposit limit. For Free and confidential support call 1800 858 858 or visit gamblinghelponline.org.au.<\/p>\n Papenhuyzen has been heavily linked with a switch to rebel rugby competition R360 in recent months and now the gun No.1 could make that switch a reality, despite the NRL\u2019s threat of 10-year bans for defecting players.<\/p>\n His exit comes only a day after young gun halfback Jonah Pezet\u2019s departure was also confirmed, signing a one-year deal with the Eels for the 2026 season.<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019ve loved my time at Melbourne Storm,\u201d Papenhuyzen said.<\/p>\n I\u2019ve enjoyed close to a decade of incredible memories and experiences in the purple jersey. <\/p>\n \u201cPlaying in front of the Storm fans every week has made my time in Melbourne something I\u2019ll never forget.<\/p>\n \u201cI want to thank the club for their understanding and support throughout this process. <\/p>\n \u201cI also want to thank my teammates, coaches and staff for all their love and support, it\u2019s been a privilege playing footy and working with you.\u201d<\/p>\n Papenhuyzen has been the Storm\u2019s first-choice fullback since Jahrome Hughes shifted to the No.7 jersey in 2020.<\/p>\n Now livewire Sua Faalogo could get the first crack at the back next season, while Cameron Munster could also shift into the No.1 jersey and Tyran Wishart slot into the halves.<\/p>\n Melbourne Storm Chairman Matt Tripp heaped praise on Papenhuyzen in the club\u2019s statement.<\/p>\n Kangaroos name team for 2nd test | 00:22<\/p>\n MORE NRL NEWS<\/p>\n 10 PLAYERS SET FOR BIG PAY RISES: Boom half\u2019s huge call; Dogs\u2019 bargain star<\/a><\/p>\n NO FAULT STAND DOWN: Munro stood down by NRL over assault, stalking charges<\/a><\/p>\n