EXCLUSIVE: Edwards on the Chopping Block as Joey Calls for Major No.1 Shift for Blues

Dylan Edwards has only just claimed the Blues No.1 jersey, but he could find himself facing a tough battle to retain it.

This situation is not down to any issues on his part.

The Penrith powerhouse is feeling the pressure from Manly’s explosive Tom Trbojevic as both players aim to impress new New South Wales coach Laurie Daley ahead of his team selection for the opening game in May.

Edwards made his debut in the State of Origin last year after then-coach Michael Maguire made the controversial decision to drop James Tedesco.

Tedesco ended up featuring in game one due to an injury to Edwards, and unfortunately, the Blues fell short against the Maroons.

Upon returning for games two and three, Edwards helped lead NSW to victory, clinching the shield and marking a terrific start to his Origin career.

Since then, Edwards has helped Penrith secure a fourth NRL premiership and has consistently performed well.

However, after Trbojevic’s stunning display against North Queensland at Brookvale last Saturday, NSW legend Andrew Johns believes the Sea Eagles star should take Edwards’ place in the lineup.

“What a phenomenal player he is!” Johns raved on Freddy and the Eighth.

“I mentioned last week on The Sunday Footy Show, if he’s fit and in form, I’d definitely choose him as fullback for the Blues.

“It’s a real shame he hasn’t been able to play fullback (for NSW). He needs to be involved every set; he is simply brilliant.”

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Johns reiterated his opinion on Wide World of Sports‘ Immortal Behaviour, speculating about the potential halves combination as well.

“When he’s on fire and fit, he’s a once-in-a-generation player,” Johns remarked regarding Trbojevic.

“He’s among the greats of the sport despite his injury challenges. His form from a few years back was unparalleled; he was unstoppable.”

“It’s surprising he’s never been played at fullback for NSW, as he excels in various positions. While Edwards is undoubtedly a champion player, Trbojevic is a generational talent.

“Can you imagine Turbo at fullback synergising with Nathan?

“With Nathan fit, Mitch Moses might have to step aside, and if both he and Jarome are strong, that could present quite a dilemma.” 

Trbojevic has represented NSW 10 times but has only played in centre and wing positions.

With Tedesco having long held the fullback position for NSW, Edwards has now stepped into the role.

Though Trbojevic can be a threat from anywhere on the pitch, his greatest asset is his support play through the middle, which makes him a natural fit for the No.1 jersey.

Former NSW coach Phil Gould concurs, asserting that Trbojevic will inevitably claim the fullback position for NSW.

“I’ve stated numerous times that he is one of the sport’s true game-changers. He continuously affects the outcome on the scoreboard,” Gould elaborated on Wide World of Sports’ Six Tackles with Gus.

“Tedesco has been the established Origin fullback for ages, and now we have Edwards, a fullback with four premiership wins under his belt who rightly deserves his spot.

“Yet, it feels like an injustice if Trbojevic finishes his career without ever playing Origin at fullback.” 

“When will that opportunity arise, if ever?”

“I’m not suggesting he should displace Dylan Edwards right now… they won the series last year, and he’s the premiership-winning fullback and an exceptional player. But Trbojevic holds such significant impact on outcomes, being one of the most dynamic attacking fullbacks in the sport. An incredible athlete.”

“If he maintains his fitness throughout the season, Manly will be a formidable force in every game.”

Edwards and Trbojevic are set to face off on April 26, in a match that may very well determine Daley’s decision for the No.1 jersey.