James Tedesco made 25 carries for 305 metres in the Roosters' grand-final victory, despite enduring a barrage of high kicks from Newcastle.
The Roosters won 19-18 at Accor Stadium on Sunday, claiming their first premiership in seven years.
Tedesco earned the Clive Churchill Medal and his third premiership, completing a personal goal he had carried since becoming captain.
Pictures of past Roosters premiership-winning captains around the club's offices reminded him of the achievement he wanted most.
"That was probably the last thing I wanted to do in my career. That was a burning desire for me," Tedesco said.
The 33-year-old's honours include two Dally M Medals, a State of Origin player-of-the-series award and a recall to the Kangaroos.
His resurgence brought the 2025 Dally M award and this year's Clive Churchill Medal, after he lost his grip on the NSW and Australian Test fullback positions.
Coach Trent Robinson praised Tedesco's work in leading the team, saying, "I couldn't be happier for him."
Robinson said the club's "play for premierships" ethos had remained tangible through a major roster overhaul after 2024.
Prop Spencer Leniu, who has won four premierships with Penrith and the Roosters, said this title felt especially meaningful after joining during a rebuild.
"It's such a special club, and I would encourage anyone who's wanting to come here to come experience it because it's second to none," Leniu said.