Teddy makes history with RLPA honour of ‘enormous significance’
James Tedesco has become the first player to be selected in the RLPA players’ dream team on six occasions after he was named at fullback for the 2026 honour.
Tedesco has previously appeared in the dream team in 2017, 2019, 2020, 2022 and 2025.
James Tedesco. Getty Images
Dolphins utility Kurt Donoghoe was named as the impact player in the squad and spoke on Nine’s 100% Footy about the honour.
“It’s really good to get recognised for that. I’m pretty lucky to come on at the 20-minute mark with a bit of fatigue in the game,” he said.
“A lot of my starters come on and do the hard work for me so I definitely give them some of the credit but I’m pretty happy to be recognised by the playing group.”
The RLPA dream team is voted by the players with each one able to nominate a maximum of one player per position. The player with the most votes for each position is selected in the team.
Selwyn Cobbo, Mark Nawaqanitawase, Herbie Farnworth and Simi Sasagi all joined Tedesco in the backs. Braydon Trindall and Nathan Cleary are the halves.
The forward pack has Naufahu Whyte, Payne Haas, Wayde Egan, Haumole Olakau’atu, Tallis Duncan and Erin Clark.
Payne Haas’ selection makes it his fifth appearance in the team, taking him to second for all-time appearances. Herbie Farnworth has been selected four times in a row.
The Roosters and Dolphins both lead the way when it comes to votes, collecting three players each.
“On behalf of the RLPA, I congratulate the 14 outstanding players selected by their peers in the 2026 Players’ Dream Team,” Clint Newton OAM, CEO of the RLPA, said.
“Across the season, these players have consistently produced at the highest level and played significant roles for their respective teams. To earn a place in the best team of the year through the votes of the players you compete against each week is a tremendous recognition of their performances.
“The Players’ Dream Team carries enormous significance because it is determined by the players themselves. Each of these 14 players has earned the respect of their peers through the standard they have set throughout the 2026 season, and they should be incredibly proud of this achievement.”
RLPA 2026 dream team
Fullback: James Tedesco
Wingers: Selwyn Cobbo, Mark Nawaqanitawase
Centres: Herbie Farnworth, Simi Sasagi
Five-Eighth: Braydon Trindall
Halfback: Nathan Cleary
Props: Naufahu Whyte, Payne Haas
Hooker: Wayde Egan
Second Rowers: Haumole Olakau’atu, Tallis Duncan
Lock: Erin Clark
Impact: Kurt Donoghoe
