The Penrith Panthers have established themselves as a dominant force in the NRL in recent years, capturing an extraordinary four
consecutive premierships. This remarkable achievement is all the more impressive considering much of the team’s core consists of
locally developed talent or astute signings who have thrived in the club’s environment. However, as with all teams in a salary-capped
competition, retaining all their top players has proven challenging. As a result, Penrith has seen several key figures depart in recent seasons,
including Api Koroisau, Stephen Crichton, and Matt Burton. This trend is set to continue, with more players on the move ahead of the 2025 season.
Key Departures Ahead of 2025
The upcoming grand final against Melbourne marked an emotional farewell for two of Penrith’s most loyal and popular players, who
are set to leave the club. Earlier in the year, five-eighth Jarome Luai confirmed his move to the Wests Tigers, where he will join former Panther
Api Koroisau. Luai will be accompanied by winger Sunia Turuva, who is also making the switch to Concord.
Midway through the season, prop James Fisher-Harris made headlines by requesting an early release from his contract to return to New
Zealand with the Warriors. In addition to these high-profile departures, the Panthers will lose a number of younger players from their junior
ranks. Jett Cleary, the younger brother of Nathan Cleary, and Isaiah Iongi will both leave for new opportunities, with Cleary heading to the New
Zealand Warriors and Iongi joining the Parramatta Eels. Veteran Tyrone Peachey, who has had two stints at Penrith, will retire at the
end of the season. Full List of Departures (As of November 20)
| Player | New Club |
|---|---|
| Jett Cleary | New Zealand Warriors |
| James Fisher-Harris | New Zealand Warriors |
| Isaiah Iongi | Parramatta Eels |
| Ativalu Lisati | Wests Tigers |
| Jarome Luai | Wests Tigers |
| Francis Manueleleua | Newcastle Knights |
| Tyrone Peachey | Retired |
| Sunia Turuva | Wests Tigers |
Penrith’s Signings for 2025
Penrith has been relatively conservative in the player market, focusing more on retaining their existing talent and promoting younger prospects from their development system. However, they have made two key signings for 2025.
Second-rower Isaiah Papali’i, who struggled to find his best form during his time at the Tigers, will be joining the Panthers. Additionally, promising Samoan international Blaize Talagi has been secured from the Parramatta Eels, with the potential to fill the void left by Luai’s departure.
As the Panthers navigate this period of transition, the club will rely on its strong recruitment strategy and the continued development of emerging talent to maintain its competitive edge.