Former NSW Forward Hoffman Labels Aaron Woods 'Coward' Over Billy Slater Criticism

Ryan Hoffman, former NSW Origin player and teammate of Aaron Woods, strongly criticized Woods for calling Queensland coach Billy Slater a "grub" on radio ahead of the 2025 State of Origin series, calling Woods a "coward" for his remarks. Hoffman argued that while criticism of tactics or selections is fair, degrading personal attacks, especially against someone Woods knows well, cross the line and contribute to unnecessary media hostility around Origin time. Hoffman also highlighted the broader issue of media creating artificial controversy for attention, urging more responsible commentary. Slater's emotional response to Woods' comments referenced the late Maroons coach Paul Green, who died by suicide and suffered from Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy, for which Slater later apologized after backlash and consulting Green's family. Hoffman defended Slater's intentions and courage in addressing responsibility publicly, contrasting it with Woods' anonymous radio attack. He emphasized the need to draw boundaries in public discourse to prevent harmful remarks being excused as banter.