With the off-season comes plenty of time to both look into the future, and also behind you.
Today we will do the latter, as we look at the performances from fullbacks in 2024.
The custodian role now is arguably second only to the halfback spot in terms of importance. An elite fullback often proves the difference between the genuine contenders and the rest.
Please note that the below are based purely on 2024 efforts. It is not a list of who is the best fullback, but who had the best 2024.
Games played will factor, as will being shifted positionally etc.
These are just for fun and discussion. Please treat them as such.
With that said, below are the top 10 fullbacks from the 2024 season:
Honourable mention - Reece Walsh: I almost included Walsh on the back of 14 tries, eight try assists, 13 line-breaks and 154 running metres, in just 14 games. I can be talked into him being in the top ten but misses out by the slimmest of margins.
9. Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow
There is a good chance the Hammer finishes higher on the list here had he not been shifted to the centres late in the season.
16 appearances this year saw him bag 15 tries, make ten line-breaks, break 80 tackles and run for 165 metres per game.
He scored one of the tries of the season against the Sharks, beating almost every member of the Sharks defence, more than once, to ultimately win the game for his side.
An incredible season for the Fins fullback turn centre. He was also brilliant for Queensland and should start for the Kangaroos.
