The Canberra Raiders have landed a major off-season addition, securing Daine Laurie from the Penrith Panthers on a multi-year deal. The versatile backline utility — capable of playing fullback, wing, centre or in the halves — joins the Green Machine as part of a broader recruitment push aimed at deepening their roster heading into the 2026 NRL season.
According to The Canberra Times, the move forms part of a three-pronged effort to strengthen Canberra’s spine depth, with Laurie’s arrival complementing ongoing negotiations involving Morgan Smithies, Ata Mariota, and Jonah Pezet.
Laurie, who previously spent time at the Wests Tigers before returning to Penrith in 2024, brings flair, speed, and creativity to the backline. Despite competition for the fullback role, his versatility makes him an ideal fit for coach Ricky Stuart’s rotation strategy.
“Daine gives us flexibility across multiple positions,” a Raiders source told Zero Tackle. “He’s the kind of player who can change a game — whether that’s from the bench or starting in the spine.”
The signing is also seen as a strategic hedge following the departure of Jamal Fogarty, who is among several players confirmed to be exiting the club after 2025. Other confirmed departures include Trey Mooney (released) and Pasami Saulo.
Retention and Stability
The Laurie deal headlines a series of important re-signings for Canberra, with the club locking in several key contributors long term:
- Zac Hosking (through 2028)
- Simi Sasagi (through 2028)
- Josh Papalii (extended for 2026)
- Savelio Tamale (extended through 2028)
These moves give the Raiders a strong nucleus of experienced forwards and emerging talent, while Laurie’s arrival ensures additional playmaking options should injury or form issues arise in the spine.
A Broader Strategic Picture
Analysts suggest Laurie’s signing is less about star power and more about positional flexibility — an area where the Raiders lagged behind top-tier clubs in 2025. His ability to cover multiple roles allows Canberra to adapt mid-game without significant disruption, a quality Ricky Stuart’s sides have often lacked.
Sportress described the move as a “smart piece of business” rather than a blockbuster signing, noting Laurie’s capacity to contribute in several roles while maintaining salary cap flexibility.
Outlook
The Green Machine’s recruitment drive appears far from finished. Canberra continues to explore additions across the spine, with attention reportedly turning to the halves market following Fogarty’s confirmed departure. Laurie’s signing may be the first step in a calculated reshaping of the Raiders’ playmaking structure.
With a mix of youth, experience, and now a dynamic new utility option, Canberra looks poised to remain competitive — and unpredictable — heading into the 2026 campaign.
