The Penrith Panthers are set to ignite a $1.5 million recruitment scramble after confirming that their halfback will depart the club to take up a lucrative deal with another NRL team.
The move, which has been in the works for several weeks, leaves the reigning premiers facing a major reshuffle in their halves for the 2026 season. The outgoing playmaker — a key member of the Panthers’ system in recent years — has reportedly signed a three-year deal with a rival club believed to be worth around $500,000 per season.
The Panthers released a brief statement acknowledging the player’s exit:
“We thank him for his service to the club and wish him all the best in the next stage of his career,” the statement read. “We remain confident in the depth of our playmaking ranks heading into 2026.”
The departure could open the door for Jack Cole or Mavrik Geyer to step into a more prominent role, while speculation continues to swirl around potential recruitment targets as Penrith look to reinforce their playmaking stocks.
NRL insiders believe the player’s availability has triggered strong interest from several clubs eager to secure a proven halfback heading into a crucial roster-building period.
“A quality half rarely hits the market, and when one does, every club picks up the phone,” an unnamed recruitment officer told NRL Newsline. “There’s no shortage of teams looking for direction in the halves.”
Despite the setback, Penrith’s coach Ivan Cleary is said to be calm about the situation, trusting the club’s development system that has consistently produced NRL-ready talent.
The Panthers are expected to make further roster announcements in the coming weeks as contract negotiations continue across multiple positions.
