While Dylan Edwards’ name circulates amongst chats about the Dally M Medal, the Panthers fullback admits he hasn’t even considered that he’s a chance to receive an award.
More than just Mr. Reliable, Edwards has had arguably the best season of his NRL career.
The talented fullback has averaged 218 metres a game this season, to go with eight tries, six try assists, 10 line breaks and 98 tackle breaks - yet he’s only concentrating on doing his job for the team.
“I’m not even really thinking about it [Dally M Medal] to be honest, I don’t think I’ll get it,” he said.
“I’m more focused on what we’re doing around here and the job we have to do as a team.”
Four Panthers forever connected
Returning from a week of rest, Edwards says the team feels extremely prepared to face the Parramatta Eels on Friday evening.
“We got a fair bit of training done last week so I’m feeling good, I’m feeling refreshed and ready to go. It was basically a week off to iron out any little niggles so we’re all feeling good to go this week.”
After playing in the 2021 finals series with a broken foot, Edwards says that he takes a lot of confidence into this year’s series, because everyone in the team knows their role and can perform under pressure.
Panthers v Eels: Finals Week 1
“It’s pretty easy to remain humble in this side. You get bought down pretty easily here,” he joked.
“The boys will definitely tell you if you’re getting a big head so fortunately none of us have too big of an ego around here. Everyone knows you’ve just got to remain level-headed and do your job. Just do your job, that’s all we’re about here. Just doing your job.”
With Nathan Cleary returning to the side after serving a four-week suspension, Edwards says he’s confident his halfback will return to the field with the same form, if not better, than when he departed the field mid-way through Round 20.
“I don’t think he’ll [Nathan] need any confidence boosting, he’s a quality player and he knows what he’s got to do out there and he knows what he’s good at,” he said.
“I’ve just got to play my role and do my job for the team.”
