Ryan Papenhuyzen released from Melbourne Storm contract effective immediately

Ryan Papenhuyzen has played his last game for the Melbourne Storm after being granted a release from the final year of his contract, effective immediately.

The 27-year-old has been linked to a move to rebel rugby league R360, but his exact movements remain unclear as he considers his future.

“Papenhuyzen, who has a year to run on his current contract, has decided to take a break away from the game to consider his future,” the Storm said in a statement.

Papenhuyzen: “I’ve loved my time at Melbourne Storm. I’ve enjoyed close to a decade of incredible memories and experiences in the purple jersey.

“Playing in front of the Storm fans every week has made my time in Melbourne something I’ll never forget.

“I want to thank the club for their understanding and support throughout this process. I also want to thank my teammates, coaches and staff for all their love and support, it’s been a privilege playing footy and working with you.”

Storm owner and chair Matt Trip said the club was disappointed but understanding.

“Ryan has shown great character and resilience throughout his time at our club, and we’ve loved watching him develop into the player and person that he is today,” Tripp said.

“We’re obviously disappointed that his time at Storm has come to an end, but we respect his decision to take some time away from professional sport.

“We thank Ryan for his enormous contribution to our club.

“He departs Storm as a premiership player and Clive Churchill medallist with 113 games to his name.

“We wish Ryan the very best for the next chapter in his life and career.”

Sua Fa’alogo is the logical replacement at full-back and is contracted at the Storm until 2028, but North Queensland youngster Jaxon Purdue has been linked with a move to Melbourne.

Purdue is off contract at the end of next season and has not agreed to terms with the Cowboys beyond then.

Confirmation of Papenhuyzen’s move comes three weeks after a cryptic social media post that foreshadowed its possibility.

“Real peace is an inside job,’’ he wrote on Instagram.

“It comes from understanding that the game, and this life, will never go exactly as you plan.

“It comes from understanding that there are forces at play that are beyond you.

“It comes from one quiet truth: you gave it everything you had. That’s always a victory.’’

The Storm are now armed with a war chest of salary cap space after Papenhuyzen’s move follows the exit of star forward Nelson Asofa-Solomona

Harry Grant is expected to announce a contract extension with the club shortly, while Cameron Munster is certain to be in demand when he comes off contract at the end of 2027.