The Fullback’s Field: A Tale of Tactical Restraint in the NRL
Ever wondered why some rugby league fullbacks seem glued to one side of the field? It’s a question that sparked my curiosity after hearing Luke Keary’s commentary during the Parramatta vs. Canberra match. Personally, I think this tactical choice reveals deeper trends in modern NRL strategy—and it’s far more intriguing than it first appears.
The Keary Insight: Why Restrict a Fullback?
Keary’s observation about Kaeo Weekes being ‘parked’ on the left side wasn’t just a throwaway comment. It’s a detail that I find especially interesting because it highlights how teams are increasingly tailoring their attacks to specific edges. What many people don’t realize is that this isn’t just about player preference—it’s a calculated move to maximize strengths and cover weaknesses.
In 2025, Weekes was stationed on the right to complement Jamal Fogarty’s control. Fast forward to 2026, and he’s shifted to the left to pair with Ethan Strange. This raises a deeper question: Are teams sacrificing a fullback’s natural roaming ability for the sake of structured play? If you take a step back and think about it, this trend could be limiting one of the most dynamic positions in the game.
The Numbers Don’t Lie: A Rightward Shift
Analyzing fullback touches since 2020 reveals a clear pattern. The league has seen a significant shift toward right-side dominance, with 60.5% of fullback touches within 40 meters occurring on that side in 2026. What this really suggests is that teams are increasingly relying on their right edge as their primary attacking weapon.
Taine Tuaupiki of the Warriors is the poster child for this trend, with a staggering 92.8% of his touches on the right. What makes this particularly fascinating is how it aligns with the Warriors’ overall strategy—47% of their tries come from the right edge. It’s not just about the fullback; it’s about the system they’re embedded in.
The Cleary Connection: A Coaching Philosophy
One thing that immediately stands out is the influence of Ivan Cleary and his disciples. Penrith’s Dylan Edwards, the second-most one-sided fullback, has been consistently right-side dominant since 2021. Connor Tracey at the Bulldogs, another Cleary-coached player, follows suit. This isn’t coincidence—it’s a deliberate coaching philosophy.
From my perspective, this approach prioritizes predictability over spontaneity. By funneling attacks through a specific edge, teams can create structured opportunities. But at what cost? Personally, I think this could stifle creativity and make defenses easier to read.
The Outliers: Freedom to Roam
Not all teams are buying into this trend. James Tedesco of the Roosters and Will Kennedy of the Sharks are among the few fullbacks with an even split of touches. Tedesco, in particular, is a master of appearing everywhere—a testament to his versatility. What many people don’t realize is that this freedom can be a game-changer in unpredictable moments.
Take Matt Dufty and Jye Gray at Parramatta. When Dufty filled in for Gray, Wayne Bennett altered the fullback’s role entirely, shifting the focus from right to left. This adaptability is rare, but it underscores the value of a fullback who isn’t confined to one side.
Broader Implications: The Future of Fullback Play
If this trend continues, we could see the fullback position evolve into a more specialized role, akin to a winger with added responsibilities. But is that what we want? In my opinion, the fullback’s ability to roam is what makes them unique—a wildcard in a structured game.
This raises a deeper question: Are we sacrificing innovation for efficiency? As teams become more data-driven, will we see even more rigid positional play? Personally, I hope not. Rugby league thrives on unpredictability, and restricting fullbacks to one side feels like a step toward homogenization.
Final Thoughts: A Balancing Act
While I understand the strategic rationale behind limiting a fullback’s movement, I can’t help but feel we’re losing something special. The fullback’s freedom to roam is part of what makes the game exciting. If you take a step back and think about it, this trend could be a symptom of a larger shift toward risk-averse, data-driven coaching.
So, the next time you watch an NRL match, pay attention to where the fullback is positioned. Are they a prisoner of their edge, or a free agent on the field? It’s a small detail, but one that speaks volumes about the game’s direction. Personally, I’m rooting for the roamers.
