Tedesco Roars Back: Roosters Captain Defies Critics and Eyes Stunning Origin Return

James Tedesco has heard all the talk — that once he hit 30, his best days were behind him. Many expected the Roosters and former NSW captain to fade into the background as a new wave of talent, including Dylan Edwards, took centre stage. But heading into a crucial showdown on Saturday night, Tedesco is proving those doubters wrong with a resurgent start to the season that has put him firmly back in the State of Origin conversation.

Despite being dropped from both the New South Wales and Australian squads last year — a decision that many thought signaled the end of his decorated representative career — the 32-year-old fullback has come out firing in 2025. Tedesco narrowly missed out on the Dally M Medal in 2024, finishing just a point behind winner Jahrome Hughes, and has continued that form into this year. While he hasn’t crossed the try line yet, his overall contributions in attack and defence have been immense, and the Roosters are leaning heavily on his consistency and leadership.

Physically, Tedesco says he feels better than ever after completing his first full pre-season in years. “I feel fit, fast and strong,” he said. “There’s always talk when you hit 30, that your game’s going to fall off a cliff. But I honestly feel like I’m playing some of my best footy.”

This weekend’s clash with Panthers star Dylan Edwards — the man who took his place in both the Blues and Kangaroos squads — could act as a de facto Origin trial. While Tedesco says he hasn’t fixated on selection, he hasn’t ruled out pulling on the sky blue jersey again. “I’m always available. I just haven’t put too much energy into it this year,” he said. “My focus has been on the Roosters — leading this young team and playing my best footy.”

With form, fitness, and motivation all aligned, James Tedesco isn’t ready to fade quietly. Instead, he’s making a compelling case that there’s still plenty of gas left in the tank — and perhaps even another Origin series on the horizon.