Dylan Edwards capped off a stellar 2026 season by taking home the prestigious Merv Cartwright Medal at the Panthers’ annual awards night.
The fullback was recognised for another outstanding campaign, claiming the Panthers’ best-and-fairest award for the second time in his career after consistently delivering at both ends of the field.
Edwards also added another major individual accolade to his growing list of achievements, named Dally M Fullback of the Year.
Across 23 appearances, Edwards scored 12 tries and provided 10 try assists, while making nine line breaks and 117 tackle breaks. He averaged 217 running metres per game, finishing the season with 4,994 metres.
His consistency was on display throughout the campaign, with Edwards producing a number of standout performances.
In Round 7, Edwards played a key role in the Panthers’ thrilling 23–22 victory over the Dolphins, combining strongly with halfback Nathan Cleary and repeatedly threatening the defensive line.
Edwards opens the scoring in Darwin
A week later, Edwards produced one of the most memorable performances of his season against the Newcastle Knights. He crossed for a first-half hat-trick in just seven minutes, scoring in the 12th, 15th and 20th minutes, while running for a game-high 284 metres from 25 carries and providing a try assist.
Dyl TRIPLE whammy
In Round 11, Edwards was again outstanding at the back, running for a game-high 294 metres from 31 carries, including 128 kick-return metres, while producing a crucial try-saving play.
Edwards stops a certain try
His defensive work was just as important as his attacking contribution, with Edwards’ willingness to put his body on the line highlighted throughout the season.
That commitment was on full display in Round 20 against the Brisbane Broncos, when Edwards produced a memorable try-saving tackle but suffered a deep head laceration that required 10 stitches.
From the field: Dylan Edwards
Edwards had already overcome adversity earlier in the campaign, missing time after aggravating a shoulder injury before returning to the field.
During the Origin period, Edwards also stepped up as captain, leading the Panthers with his trademark class and composure.
His resilience was tested once again in the Panthers’ preliminary final against the Newcastle Knights.
Edwards takes off
Edwards suffered a ruptured posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) during the first half but continued to play for more than 50 minutes despite heavily restricted lateral movement.
The injury ultimately ruled Edwards out of contention for the Australian Kangaroos’ upcoming Rugby League World Cup campaign.
Edwards’ 2026 season was defined by consistency, resilience and a willingness to put his body on the line for his teammates.
With another Merv Cartwright Medal now added to his collection, the Panthers fullback has once again cemented his place among the competition’s best.
ACHIEVEMENTS
- 2026 Merv Cartwright Medallist
- 2026 Dally M Fullback of the Year
- Third place on the Dally M leaderboard with 52 points
STAT ATTACK
- Appearances – 23
- Tries – 12
- Goals – 2
- Try assists – 10
- Line breaks – 9
- Tackle breaks – 117
- Tackles – 126
- Running metres – 4,994 (217 per game)
BEST TRY
Edwards came up clutch with this crucial equalising try against the Roosters, helping the Panthers hold their nerve and book their place in the preliminary final.
Edwards with the equaliser
WHAT WAS SAID
Panthers coach Ivan Cleary said Edwards is,
"The best defensive fullback in the game."
Ivan Cleary, Panthers Coach
SOCIAL SCENE
Edwards shared this post-match shot with his wife, Nadine and two daughters, Bronte and Winter.
