As Penrith prepares for its quest for an unprecedented fifth straight premiership, the club has announced the departure of several key contributors. Each exit marks the end of an era—and raises the stakes for contenders hoping to knock the Panthers off their pedestal.
Confirmed Departures
Based on verified sources, here are the six players leaving Penrith ahead of the 2025 season:
1. Jarome Luai – Wests Tigers
The long-serving five-eighth, a central figure in Penrith’s midfield dating back to their 2021 title, has secured a five-year, $6 million deal with the Wests Tigers starting 2025. His move was confirmed in January 2024 and follows a heartfelt farewell after another Grand Final win.
2. Sunia Turuva – Wests Tigers
A breakout winger known for his speed and finishing prowess, Turuva is also set for a move to Concord to join Luai next season.
3. James Fisher-Harris – New Zealand Warriors
The powerhouse prop and former New Zealand captain was granted a compassionate early release to return home, joining the Warriors on a new deal from 2025.
4. Isaiah Iongi – Parramatta Eels
The talented young fullback, with limited opportunities behind Dylan Edwards, was released to pursue greater first-grade chances at the Eels.
5. Tyrone Peachey – Retirement (to Queensland Cup)
After two stints with the Panthers, the veteran utility announced his retirement from the NRL and will instead play in the Queensland Cup.
6. Jett Cleary – New Zealand Warriors
Nathan Cleary’s younger brother, Jett, is confirmed to be moving to the Warriors in 2025.
Summary Table
| Player | Destination | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Jarome Luai | Wests Tigers | High-profile five-eighth exit |
| Sunia Turuva | Wests Tigers | Emerging winger |
| James Fisher-Harris | New Zealand Warriors | Released on compassionate grounds |
| Isaiah Iongi | Parramatta Eels | Seeking first-grade opportunities |
| Tyrone Peachey | Retired / QLD Cup | Ends NRL career |
| Jett Cleary | New Zealand Warriors | Younger sibling of Nathan Cleary |
What It Means for Penrith
The exodus spans key positions across the spine of the team—from halves to backline to the mighty front row. While painful, Penrith’s renowned development pipeline and retention of core leaders like Nathan Cleary, Isaah Yeo, Liam Martin, Dylan Edwards, and Brian To’o provide continuity.
Still, these six exits represent significant shifts for a club built on stability and premiership continuity. The Panthers’ recruiting strategy and internal depth will be tested as the spotlight intensifies in 2025.
