‘We’re building something special’: Premiership window very much alive after Ryan Papenhuyzen agrees to new Storm deal

Ryan Papenhuyzen has inked a one-year deal to remain with the Melbourne Storm until the end of the 2026 season, with the flashy fullback confident that their core group is “building something special” after their run to this year’s grand final.

His contract status has been one of the major talking points in the off-season ever since he was able to start talking with rival clubs on November 1, but despite being linked with a move to the Bulldogs, Papenhuyzen has agreed to remain in Melbourne.

He could have earned more money elsewhere, but the 2020 Clive Churchill Medal winner can see something special brewing after they won the minor premiership but fell short on grand final night.

Papenhuyzen, Jahrome Hughes and Harry Grant are all signed until the end of 2026, while fellow spine member Cameron Munster is locked in until 2027 which means their premiership window is very much alive.

“I feel like we’re building something special here and I have a real drive to see that through,” Papenhuyzen said.

“We’ve had the core group of our squad together for a while and played a lot of footy alongside each other. To stay in Melbourne and hopefully enjoy success together is something that motivates me.

“I’m excited for the season ahead and can’t wait to be back out on the field in front of a packed house at AAMI Park come Round 1.”

Papenhuyzen could well end up in the same position in 12 months if he can’t agree to a long-term extension, with his health the main priority for now after finally enjoying some luck in 2024 following three-injury ravaged seasons which limited him to just 30 appearances.

He returned to training on Wednesday, with all eyes now on teammate Sua Fa’alogo, who has signed a lengthy deal with the Storm but will struggle for game time now that the fullback position is off the table for another two years.

“Ryan is a quality person and a quality player – he’s someone who has become a really important part of our club and a leader for our younger players,” Storm chief executive Justin Rodski said.

“He’s invested in our culture and he’s invested in making himself and this team better.

“We’re confident off the back of the finish he had to the 2024 season he’ll be in full flight in 2025 and beyond which will be exciting for all Storm members and fans.”