Nathan Cleary Commits to Panthers if Staying in NRL
Nathan Cleary is poised to continue his impactful tenure with the Penrith Panthers in the NRL. Renowned as one of the league’s premier halfbacks, his importance to the club cannot be overstated.
Nathan Cleary’s Contributions to the Panthers
Cleary has played a crucial role in the Panthers’ recent success. Over the past six seasons, he has helped the club secure:
- Five grand finals
- Four premiership titles
- One preliminary final appearance
Despite a rocky start to the 2025 season, where the team found itself at the bottom of the table, his leadership turned the tide, demonstrating his value.
Development and Pathway to Success
The Panthers’ rise can be directly linked to the strategic vision of former director of football Phil Gould. His ‘five-year plan’ has endured, benefiting both the club and the broader community.
Cleary exemplifies the success of this player development pathway. At one point, 15 of the 17 players in the grand final lineup began their careers at Penrith. This remarkable achievement highlights the depth of talent nurtured within the club.
Nathan Cleary’s Future with the Panthers
While some may view Cleary as a system player, his talents have drawn interest from other clubs. The PNG Chiefs, joining the competition in 2028, are reportedly considering both Cleary and his coach, Ivan Cleary, as their contracts expire in 2027.
If Cleary goes into the open market without a renewed contract for 2028, he will undoubtedly attract attention from numerous NRL teams. The Panthers have already initiated discussions regarding his future.
Statements from Panthers Management
Matt Cameron, the rugby league head of football for the Panthers, emphasized the importance of both Cleary and his father, Ivan. He stated, “What Ivan and Nathan do next is going to become a hot topic of discussion as we move through the 2026 season.”
He acknowledged Cleary’s potential longevity, stating, “With Nathan’s preparation and the advancements in sports science, he could play for another ten years.”
Staying with the Panthers: A Logical Choice
For Cleary, remaining with the Panthers seems like the best option, aligning perfectly with the club’s goals. The Panthers have shown resilience in overcoming player departures in recent years, adapting successfully despite major losses.
Previous departures, including key players like Jarome Luai and James Fisher-Harris, tested the team’s depth. However, under Cleary’s leadership, the Panthers rebounded to reach the preliminary finals, showcasing their strength.
Legacy and Future Prospects
As Cleary contemplates his future, he has the chance to solidify his legacy at Penrith. He is on track to be one of the greatest players in club history.
Should he choose a different path, such as a move overseas to rugby or the English Super League, it could be justified by personal reasons. Yet, as it stands, there’s a strong sentiment that Cleary will remain a Panther for life.
