Thomas Jenkins: A Rising Star in the NRL
Thomas Jenkins has quickly become one of the most dangerous wingers in the National Rugby League (NRL). This is a title that few would have predicted at the start of the season, especially considering he is playing within a red-hot Penrith Panthers attack. However, Jenkins has seamlessly integrated into the best system in the competition, and his success is not just a matter of luck.
His attitude has also been commendable. After being dropped from the finals last year, Jenkins acknowledged it was the right decision leading into this season. He has since made no mistakes in securing his spot, ensuring it won’t be taken away again by September. With the Panthers on track for another deep run into the finals, Jenkins’ performance is proving to be a key factor.
Currently, Jenkins has 18 tries to his name and could potentially challenge the record for the most tries in a season with 13 games still to play. This includes a crucial top-of-the-table clash against the New Zealand Warriors on Sunday night.
However, the Panthers are facing a contract crunch, and there have been rumors that Jenkins might be forced out due to his upcoming salary increase. The club, which is under significant salary cap pressure, may not be able to afford his demands. Despite this, Jenkins is still considered an affordable option for many clubs in the NRL.
Clubs That Could Benefit from Signing Jenkins
Brisbane Broncos
With the news that Jesse Arthars is set to leave the Broncos at the end of the year, along with the departures of Grant Anderson and likely Gehamat Shibasaki, there is a clear need for outside backs at Red Hill. While the departure of Payne Haas has eased some salary cap pressure, the Broncos still need to find players to fill the gap.
Currently, the Broncos only have Kotoni Staggs, Deine Mariner, Josiah Karapani, Antonio Verhoeven, and Phillip Coates as contracted outside backs for 2027. This is not a strong depth, and one of Verhoeven or Coates, who are both learning the ropes, would likely start. Jenkins would come at a reasonable price, bringing plenty of try-scoring pedigree and potential for improvement.
Wests Tigers
The Wests Tigers may be considering Jenkins as a way to strengthen their outside backline without breaking the bank. William Craig and Jeral Skelton are off-contract at the end of the year, while Heamasi Makasini, Taylan May, Starford To’a, and Sunia Turuva are likely starters. Jenkins could provide an upgrade, allowing Makasini to move to center and Jenkins to take the wing.
This combination could create a powerful attacking lineup, with Jenkins and Turuva as wingers alongside May and Makasini.
Canterbury Bulldogs
The Canterbury Bulldogs are tight on salary cap space, but there is hope that Matt Burton’s potential departure could ease some pressure. The Bulldogs have struggled after a strong start to 2025 and are more likely to miss the finals this year. Jacob Kiraz’s emergence at fullback could see him play there more regularly, leaving the Bulldogs short on wings.
Jethro Rinakama is signed until 2027, and the club must make decisions on Marcelo Montoya and Enari Tuala. With Jonathan Sua likely to leave for Perth, the Bulldogs need signings. Jenkins, if he remains in Sydney, could be a cost-effective addition to their backline.
Parramatta Eels
The Eels face big questions over their back five. While Josh Addo-Carr and Bailey Simonsson have secure spots, Sean Russell and Apa Twidle are leaving for Perth, and Will Penisini’s future beyond this year is uncertain. Jordan Samrani, Brian Kelly, and Araz Nanva are other players locked onto deals, but none have proven themselves yet.
Jenkins, along with Simonsson, could add depth to the back five, providing try-scoring threat and versatility.
Perth Bears
Jenkins has already been linked to the Perth Bears, and while they are internally confident, there are concerns about their competitiveness in their first season. Their outside back options include Sean Russell, Nick Meaney, Siosifa Talakai, Luke Laulilii, Apa Twidle, and Harry Newman. Jenkins would fit well into their lineup, bringing try-scoring punch and a winning mentality.
Whether he would accept a move across the country for a pay raise remains to be seen.
St George Illawarra Dragons
The Dragons have made four quality signings for 2027, including Scott Drinkwater, Phillip Sami, Luke Metcalf, and Keaon Koloamatangi. These moves came at a high cost, so there may not be much left in the budget. However, the Dragons could still use another piece to their puzzle.
Setu Tu and David Fale have not been convincing, and while some suggest Valentine Holmes returning to the wing is the solution, the Dragons could benefit from another player from a successful system. Jenkins is a cost-effective option and could be a regular starter at the joint-venture if he wants to stay in Sydney.
