Penrith Panthers have been left anxiously awaiting the fitness of a second key player ahead of the 2025 NRL season-opener in Las Vegas, following a recent shoulder surgery for fullback Dylan Edwards.
Just days after helping Australia secure victory over Tonga in the Pacific Championships final, Edwards underwent shoulder surgery to address an ongoing impingement issue that has troubled him intermittently for the past two seasons. The procedure, performed by the same surgeon who treated halfback Nathan Cleary last week, involved a Latarjet operation, a procedure that includes a bone graft to enhance shoulder stability.
Edwards, who had kept the extent of his shoulder issue largely under wraps, was only diagnosed after fresh scans and consultations with the Panthers’ medical staff. The 28-year-old’s recovery is expected to take between 14 to 16 weeks, meaning he faces a race against time to be fit for Penrith’s season opener against Cronulla at Allegiant Stadium on March 1, just 15 weeks away.
It has been a brilliant season for Edwards, who capped off his year by winning a fourth NRL title with the Panthers. He also made his debut in State of Origin, playing a key role in New South Wales’ series win, and earned the fullback spot for the Australian Kangaroos. His position is now considered his to lose until at least the 2026 World Cup.
Despite the pain, Edwards’ professionalism remained unwavering, with Kangaroos coach Mal Meninga praising his resilience. “He doesn’t complain, I know he’s had a sore shoulder, but I wasn’t aware he needed surgery,” Meninga said. “He’s the ultimate professional. He’s been great around the group, and when he talks, you listen.”
While the Panthers are optimistic that both Edwards and Cleary will be fit for the Las Vegas clash, coach Ivan Cleary remains mindful of the long season ahead. The club will be cautious in managing their stars’ return to full fitness, especially with the loss of back-up halfback Jarome Luai and fullback Sunia Turuva, both of whom joined the Wests Tigers during the off-season.
The Panthers’ injury list also includes new recruit Blaize Talagi, who underwent the Latarjet procedure after aggravating his shoulder in the Samoa-England Test. With the club eager to avoid long-term issues for the 19-year-old, the injury has prompted a reassessment of player workloads in the pre-season.
In more positive news, fellow Australia representative Isaah Yeo finished the season with an impressive 32 games, including three Origin appearances, three Tests, and a World Club Challenge. However, he will enjoy the off-season without the need for any major “running repairs” to his body.
In addition, Paul Alamoti, who sustained ligament damage to his elbow during the Tongan Test, is expected to make a full recovery and will return to training in the new year.
As the Panthers continue to navigate these injury challenges, all eyes will be on Edwards and Cleary’s progress as the club prepares for what promises to be an exciting 2025 season