<h2>Storm Release Ryan Papenhuzyen – Four Pointer Summary:</h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>- &nbsp; Ryan Papenhuyzen has been granted an immediate release from his Melbourne Storm contract, ending his tenure with one year remaining on his deal.</p> <p>- &nbsp; The 27-year-old fullback was considered part of the Storm's 'Big Four' alongside Harry Grant, Cameron Munster, and Jahrome Hughes.</p> <p>- &nbsp; Sua Fa'alogo is expected to step into the No.1 jersey for the 2026 NRL season following Papenhuyzen's stunning departure.</p> <p>- &nbsp; Papenhuyzen is rumoured to be on the radar<a href="https://www.sportsbet.com.au/huddle/misc/other-news/what-is-r360"> of R360, the rebel Rugby Union competition</a> starting next year.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2>Storm Release Star Fullback in Shock Decision</h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>The Melbourne Storm have made the surprising decision to release Ryan Papenhuyzen from the final year of his contract, bringing an abrupt end to the fullback's successful tenure with the club.</p> <p>The 27-year-old had established himself as a cornerstone of the Storm's attacking structure since claiming the No.1 jersey in 2020.</p> <p>Papenhuyzen's departure comes despite Melbourne's public desire to retain him as part of their star-studded roster.</p> <p>The fullback was widely regarded as one of the Storm's 'Big Four' alongside captain Harry Grant and halves Cameron Munster and Jahrome Hughes, making his release all the more unexpected.</p> <p>The decision followed months of speculation linking Papenhuyzen to the rebel rugby union competition R360, which has been targeting high-profile NRL players.</p> <p>While his next destination remains unconfirmed, the fullback would command significant interest on the open market given his proven track record and recent form.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2>Career-Best Season Before Departure</h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Papenhuyzen's 2025 campaign represented a return to peak performance following injury struggles that had plagued previous seasons.</p> <p>The fullback averaged 127 metres per game while posting career-high numbers in tackle busts and offloads, demonstrating the attacking flair that made him such a valuable asset.</p> <p>Most significantly, he managed to stay on the field for more games than in any season since his debut year in 2019.</p> <p>This durability was crucial after overcoming a shattered kneecap in 2023 - an injury recovery that was hailed as one of the most remarkable comebacks in recent NRL history.</p> <p>His consistent availability and elite performance levels throughout 2025 had reinforced his value to the Storm's premiership aspirations, making the timing of his release particularly surprising for fans and analysts alike.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2>Storm Face Fullback Transition</h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>With Papenhuyzen's immediate departure confirmed, Melbourne Storm must now pivot to their succession plan. Sua Fa'alogo, who is contracted until 2028, is widely expected to step into the fullback role for the 2026 season.</p> <p>The young gun had been viewed as the Storm's long-term solution at No.1 should they fail to retain their star fullback.</p> <p>The Storm's challenge extends beyond simply replacing Papenhuyzen's on-field contributions. His departure could trigger broader roster instability, particularly with captain Cameron Munster entering the final year of his contract.</p> <p>Retaining their remaining superstars will be crucial as Melbourne looks to maintain their competitive edge.</p> <p>This unexpected turn of events represents a significant shift for the Storm, who must now rebuild their backline structure while managing potential interest from rival clubs and the emerging<a href="https://www.sportsbet.com.au/huddle/nrl/news/10-stars-set-to-join-r360"> R360 competition in their remaining elite players</a>.</p> <p>The fullback's release marks the end of a successful chapter at Melbourne Storm, with his future destination set to become one of the most closely watched storylines in Australian rugby league.</p> <p><strong>&nbsp;</strong></p>