Reece Robson Endorses James Tedesco for Blues Fullback Role
NSW incumbent Reece Robson has given his approval to James Tedesco for the Blues fullback role as he competes with Dylan Edwards for the No.1 position. This decision is one of Laurie Daley’s most significant choices for Game 1 of the State of Origin series.
Many big names are backing Tedesco’s return to the No.1 jersey, which he last wore in Game 1 of 2024. However, Panthers coach Ivan Cleary has made a rare move by advocating for Edwards after the Penrith Panthers fullback regained the form that previously secured him the jersey over Tedesco.
One player who has played alongside both Tedesco and Edwards is Robson. The Roosters No.9 is set to retain his place in the Blues squad and could work in tandem with Blayke Brailey in 2026. Robson has shared his view on who should wear the No.1 jersey. Speaking ahead of selection next Monday, he said that since joining the Roosters this season, he has seen how crafty Tedesco is week in, week out.
The dummy-half said both fullbacks are sensational, but tipped Tedesco as the in-form fullback to wear the Blues jersey in 2026. “You asking me? Robson laughed when asked on Tuesday.
“Teddy is a great player and is in unreal form, so it’s hard to go past Teddy at the moment. I’ve also played with Dylan and he is in great form as well. There are a lot of great options at the moment.”
Robson Praises James Tedesco’s Form
Robson admitted he has enjoyed playing alongside Tedesco this season after joining the Roosters from the Cowboys. “He is unreal to play alongside every week…he doesn’t miss any opportunity. His fitness, the way he reads the play. I don’t think I’ve seen an opportunity that he has missed,” Robson added about Tedesco.
When asked who has surprised him since joining the Roosters, it was Tedesco. “It’s hard to go past Teddy…I knew how good he was from watching him and I was lucky to play a couple of Origins with him. To play week in, week out with him…to see what he does. Every week it is pretty incredible to watch and play alongside.”
The Roosters have jumped to third on the ladder. They will face Robson’s old team the Cowboys in Magic Round this week.
Ivan Cleary Sings Dylan Edwards’ Praises
Speaking after the win over the Raiders, coach Cleary quipped Edwards has been brilliant for his side and doesn’t deserve to be overlooked for the NSW Blues. “It’s a good problem. Dylan is in incredible form, and I’ve seen him play at his best, and he’s pretty close to it,” Cleary said.
“If we’re talking about taking Dylan Edwards out of the Origin team, then geez, it must be going well. I’ll just say that. Teddy is playing incredibly; he always has, but there was a decision made for Dylan to come in, in place of him, and since then, he hasn’t done much wrong.”
