The Challenges Facing the Penrith Panthers
The Penrith Panthers are currently facing a period of uncertainty, with a growing number of players considering their options in the open market. This has led to public speculation about the club’s future and whether it can maintain its success in the coming years. Recent developments, such as Isaah Yeo’s decision to test the open market, have only added to the concerns.
One of the most notable players who could be affected is Nathan Cleary, the star halfback. While he remains a key figure for the team, there is no guarantee that he will stay with the Panthers beyond 2027. Other players, including Blaize Talagi, Brian To’o, Isaiah Papali’i, Liam Martin, Mitch Kenny, Moses Leota, and Paul Alamoti, are also set to become free agents. Additionally, fringe players like Billy Scott, John Fonua, and Luron Patea may explore new opportunities.
Despite these challenges, Ivan Cleary, the coach of the Panthers, remains optimistic. He recently told the media via AAP that the club is confident in the system they have built and believes that things will work out. “Not really, no,” he said when asked if there was cause for concern. “We’re comfortable with what we’ve built here at Panthers. We’ve lost players that we’ve wanted to keep for many, many years. It’s sort of just part of what happens when you’re successful.”
Cleary’s confidence is not unfounded. The Panthers have experienced significant turnover in recent years, largely due to a salary cap crunch that came after a period of immense success. This included four straight premierships, five consecutive grand finals, and another preliminary final in 2026. While the losses were minimal this year, they had a noticeable impact last year following the departures of Jarome Luai and James Fisher-Harris.
Luai’s potential move to the PNG Chiefs has been a particular concern for the Panthers. However, there was some relief when Terrell May and Taylan May re-signed with the club through to the end of 2030, ensuring they won’t be foundation players for the Chiefs. Despite this, several of Luai’s former teammates at Penrith could still consider the tax-free dollars offered by the Willie Peters-coached side.
Cleary has expressed his support for players testing the open market, emphasizing that they have earned the right to do so. “They’ve earned that right. Just because they said that doesn’t mean they’re leaving,” he said. “It’d be very hard for all of our boys to leave here. But the reality is it can happen. We’re experienced in this caper. Sure, the Chiefs, that’s a new, little layer to it but as I said, it’ll work out.”
