FORMER Bellingen Valley/Dorrigo Magpies junior Dylan Edwards has risen to the status of NRL’s best fullback in the eyes of his fellow players, winning the No.1 jersey in the annual Dream Team.

Three months after replacing James Tedesco as NSW State of Origin fullback, Edwards was on Monday named in the Rugby League Players’ Association’s (RLPA) Dream Team for the first time.

He is one of four Penrith players voted onto the 2024 team, alongside Brian To’o, Jarome Luai and Isaah Yeo.

But it is Edwards’ selection that is most notable.

The Panthers star is in a battle to win the Australian Test No.1 jersey for the first time this year in the Pacific Championships, pending the fitness of his knee.

Tedesco and Kalyn Ponga would be the two other most likely options, with Manly star Tom Trbojevic expected to undergo shoulder surgery.

Tedesco had previously been named fullback in the Dream Team in 2017, 2019, 2020 and 2022, before Reece Walsh claimed the award last year.

But Edwards is now leading the way at No.1 according to his peers, with all contracted NRL players able to vote for one player in each position in the team.

Melbourne No.7 Jahrome Hughes was voted in as the season’s best halfback for the first time, and would be a firm chance to be named the RLPA’s Players’ Champion on NRL grand final day.

Zac Lomax, Mitch Barnett, Eli Katoa, and Luai were also named in the 13 for the first time, while Terrell May was selected as the maiden “impact player” of the year.

“It is a huge honour to be recognised by your peers as the best player in your position for that season,” RLPA CEO Clint Newton said.

“The players that can change games, inspire their teammates with their actions, and help drive the teams to victory.”

RLPA 2024 DREAM TEAM:

Dylan Edwards, Zac Lomax, Stephen Crichton, Herbie Farnworth, Brian To’o, Jarome Luai, Jahrome Hughes, Addin Fonua-Blake, Harry Grant, Mitchell Barnett, Angus Crichton, Eli Katoa, Isaah Yeo. Impact: Terrell May.

By Scott BAILEY, AAP