The Melbourne Storm are preparing to back rising star Sua Fa’alogo as their first-choice fullback in 2026 following Ryan Papenhuyzen’s departure from the NRL, opening the door for the club’s most exciting local talent to step into the No.1 jersey.
The 22-year-old has flashed his attacking brilliance in limited opportunities, largely forced to wait behind Papenhuyzen or play out of position, but now shapes as the frontrunner with Nick Meaney settled at centre and young prospect Hugo Peel earmarked for development in NSW Cup.
Storm football boss Frank Ponissi said Fa’alogo has returned to pre-season aware this is his moment, noting strong early training performances. While Fa’alogo has already proven his running threat at fullback, consistently topping 100 metres per game, coaches say the next phase of his development will focus on sharpening his ball-playing and defensive skills as he prepares for a defining season.
