In a surprising mid‑season move, the Penrith Panthers have officially released a 29‑year‑old forward who had failed to meet expectations. The club cited “disappointing development” and a need to free up roster space as main reasons behind the decision.
What we know so far
The forward had been under pressure for some time, struggling to break into the regular rotation and failing to justify his contract through consistent performance.
Facing a deep and competitive forward pack, Penrith opted to part ways to allow younger players a shot and maintain flexibility under the salary cap.
No public statement has yet clarified whether the player will join another NRL club immediately, or whether he’ll explore other options.
Context: Recent departures at Penrith
This release comes amid a period of transition for the Panthers, with a few notable exits in recent seasons:
James Fisher‑Harris, a key front‑rower and former captain, was granted a release from his contract in April 2024 to return to New Zealand.
Jarome Luai has confirmed his intention to leave the club at the end of the 2024 season, having informed staff of his decision.
More broadly, ahead of the 2025 season, the Panthers announced 13 players departing, including Dylan Brown, Joey Lussick, and Wiremu Greig.
These changes suggest Penrith is reshaping its roster, balancing the pressure to stay competitive with the need for sustainable long‑term squad depth.
