The rival fullbacks whose futures are tied to Ryan Papenhuyzen's next big decision

Ryan Papenhuyzen has emerged as the biggest name to test himself on the NRL open market and there's no shortage of potential landing spots for the Storm superstar.

In a surprise development, reports filtered through last week that Papenhuyzen would not be taking up Melbourne's offer to remain at the club for 2026 and beyond.

Papenhuyzen was tabled a cut-price three-year extension, but the fullback is looking to find out his worth when the November 1 free agency period begins.

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At this stage, no potential suitors have formally emerged, but it's hard to fathom a player of Papenhuyzen's ability wouldn't receive interest.

While his injury history is well-documented, the 26-year-old returned to form this year, helping the Storm capture a minor premiership and book a grand final appearance.

The speedster has 62 tries in 96 first grade games with Melbourne and won the coveted Clive Churchill Medal during the side's last premiership win in 2020.

Many clubs across the NRL already have fullbacks locked in long-term, but there are some who could shuffle things around to accommodate a marquee talent.

Wide World of Sports takes a look at the five most likely landing spots for Papenhuyzen.

Melbourne Storm

The most obvious choice and most likely scenario will see Papenhuyzen remain where he already is, given his relationship with the squad and coaching staff.

Craig Bellamy is a huge admirer of the fullback, not only for what he brings in terms of attacking flair, but also from a leadership perspective inside the four walls.

His current deal is worth an estimated $1 million at the Storm with endorsements on top, while the tabled extension offer is reportedly around the $750,000 mark with the belief that Papenhuyzen could make up the difference due to his marketability.

The issue for the Storm will be whether they want to splash the cash to keep their current No.1 or move in a new direction with Sua Fa'alogo, who would cost much less.

The pint-sized fullback has already shown glimpses of his enormous potential and is signed until the end of 2028, but could get itchy feet if he's forced to wait that long to lock down a permanent starting role in Melbourne.

On the flip side, Papenhuyzen would keep the club's star-studded spine in tact and keep their premiership window wide-open for at least another few years.

Parramatta Eels

Outside of re-signing with the Storm long-term, a move to Parramatta would perhaps be the most logical one for Papenhuyzen for a number of reasons.

Firstly, it's no secret that the Eels have told Clint Gutherson his time in the No.1 jumper may be coming to an end, leading to rumours of a potential switch to the Dragons.

Should the Eels' inspirational captain leave the club, there would be plenty of money in the salary cap for Papenhuyzen and an obvious spot in the backline.

The other factor that could benefit the Eels if they were to chase Papenhuyzen is his pre-existing relationship with new head coach Jason Ryles.

The pair worked together at the Storm during Ryles' two stints as an assistant and you would have to imagine Papenhuyzen would at least entertain the conversation.

Papenhuyzen is also unlikely to leave Melbourne if he doesn't believe he will be part of a roster that can compete for titles, which the Eels shouldn't be too far off given their quality halves combination and strong forward pack.

Cronulla Sharks

This is a little bit of a left-field option, but Cronulla is inching closer towards being a genuine premiership threat and Papenhuyzen could be the final piece of the puzzle.

Craig Fitzgibbon led them to a prelim final berth this season and with arguably the game's best prop Addin Fonua-Blake joining the club in 2025, they should only improve.

Heading into the November 1 free agency date, Cronulla has a litany of players who will come off-contract including current fullback Will Kennedy, as well as back-up options Kade Dykes and Daniel Atkinson.

If there's one thing the Sharks lack in the spine, it's the type of genuine game-breaking ability and speed that Papenhuyzen brings to the table.

Sydney Roosters

It wouldn't be one of these lists without mentioning the Roosters, who are cashed-up after losing a host of high-profile names at the end of 2024.

Joseph Suaaalii, Joey Manu and Luke Keary will all leave gaping holes - and plenty of salary cap space - in the Bondi backline, with no major signings coming in just yet.

As it stands, James Tedesco is unsigned beyond next year and while the skipper had a tremendous season, he isn't getting any younger and his future is still unclear.

It's certainly not out of the realms of possibility that Trent Robinson and Nick Politis look to weave their magic on the Storm superstar as a succession plan to Tedesco.

Whether it's Papenhuyzen at fullback or another player, expect to see the Chooks make a splash in November when rival players become available.

St George Illawarra Dragons

The pursuit of the aforementioned Gutherson will be a major factor in Shane Flanagan's plans for the free agency period - but a play for Papenhuyzen isn't out of the question.

Flanagan publicly stating his desire to sign Gutherson is proof that the Dragons coach doesn't have faith in young gun Tyrell Sloan after his first season in charge.

Sloan enjoyed undoubtedly his best season in the top grade, finishing with 13 tries and 10 try assists for the Red V, as well as earning a two-year contract extension.

However, the defensive issues that have plagued his early career were still there at times, likely leading to Flanagan looking elsewhere to wear the No.1 jumper.

If they are unable to secure Gutherson's services, St George Illawarra could definitely become a major player in the race for Papenhuyzen, especially given their improving roster and quality crop of young talent coming through the lower grades.

Watch this space.