Dylan Edwards is set to be the first casualty of Penrith’s horror start to the season, with the club attempting to offload the unwanted fullback in a move that could result in him becoming North Queensland’s fallback option for Valentine Holmes.

Edwards, contracted to the Panthers until the end of 2021, began the year as the club’s first-choice No.1. It was a huge show of confidence given the club also had the Kiwis custodian and captain Dallin Watene-Zelezniak on its books.

Out of favour: Panthers fullback Dylan Edwards. Credit:AAP

However, Edwards has fallen out of favour in what has been a difficult start to the season. The 23-year-old was incorrectly identified as being involved in the Panthers’ sex video saga, a drama that took a toll on his young family. He has spoken publicly about the collateral damage the case of mistaken identity has caused and those close to him believe it has also affected his on-field form.

After starting at fullback in the opening four rounds, he was shifted to the wing before being dropped altogether to reserve grade. With Caleb Aitkens now coach Ivan Cleary’s preferred fullback, the Panthers are allowing Edwards to explore his options despite him having more than two-and-a-half years to run on his contract.