Roosters Face Fullback Conundrum as Tedesco’s Ironman Streak Tested
SYDNEY – The Sydney Roosters are confronting a critical fullback dilemma ahead of the 2026 NRL season, with captain James Tedesco’s remarkable run of durability set to be put under unprecedented strain. While the club has strengthened its roster with high-profile signings including Daly Cherry-Evans and Reece Robson, depth at the number one jersey remains a pressing concern.
Tedesco, who claimed last season’s Dally M Medal and has avoided significant injury for multiple campaigns, is being relied upon to play every minute of available football. The 32-year-old’s ironman streak has been a cornerstone of the Roosters’ success, but should he be sidelined, the club’s options are unconventional at best.
Potential replacements include Cody Ramsey, a winger who has not featured in the NRL for more than three years after battling ulcerative colitis that kept him out of action for seven months. Also in contention are Mark Nawaqanitawase, who is weighing a switch to rugby union with the Wallabies, and teenage rugby convert Rex Bassingthwaighte – viewed as Tedesco’s long-term heir but still roughly 18 months from being ready for consistent first-grade football.
Bassingthwaighte will get an early opportunity to showcase his development when he starts at fullback in the Roosters’ trial match against the Wests Tigers next week. However, coaching staff have emphasized that the young talent remains a work in progress.
Tedesco has thrown his support behind Ramsey, who has impressed throughout pre-season preparations. “Cody has been outstanding, we’ve swapped in and out of training plenty of times, and he’s done an awesome job,” Tedesco said. “To hear his story, and what he’s been through, and to now come back and play footy, it’s pretty special. He’s definitely stood out at training.”
The skipper highlighted Ramsey’s blend of speed and toughness, adding: “He could even be that specialist back we put on the bench where if something does happen.”
With the regular season kicking off in just three weeks, the Roosters will be hoping Tedesco’s durability holds firm, while continuing to develop their contingency options for the pivotal fullback role.
