2025 Preview: Penrith Panthers

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Josh Robertson looks ahead at the Penrith Panthers' quest for a fifth straight premiership heading into 2025.

Heading into the 2025 season as defending premiers once again, the Penrith Panthers remain as confident as ever, despite facing significant changes. The departures of key stars such as Jarome Luai and James Fisher-Harris, along with the challenge of moving away from their Penrith heartland to Parramatta, have done little to shake the club's belief in its ability to succeed. A squad filled with experience and young talent is ready to fill the void left by departing stars and prove the dynasty can continue.

Every year, commentary surrounding the Panthers revolves around speculation that their dynasty is coming to an end. Yet, they continue to defy expectations and the history books by making it to the biggest game of the year and ultimately winning it. The 2024 season probably showcased their culture at its strongest, as the Panthers experienced their most inconsistent campaign of the decade. Some poor performances towards the back end of the season had many questioning whether they could go all the way.

Throughout the season, the Panthers appeared to be below the Storm in form, and many believed that, despite Penrith's recent dominance, their dynasty would end at the hands of Melbourne. Instead, the Men in Pink, as they were on that historic October day, became the first team in over 60 years to win four straight premierships with their victory over the Storm.

Yet again in 2025, the Panthers have lost big-name players like Jarome Luai and James Fisher-Harris, which is a significant blow to the Mountain Men. Unlike previous seasons, where Penrith filled gaps internally, the club made two major signings—Isaiah Papali'i from the Tigers and Blaize Talagi from Parramatta—to bolster their squad.

Why they'll win it

They are the Panthers. That's a simplistic view, but at this stage, it's almost expected of the Mountain Men. As mentioned, the loss of Luai and Fisher-Harris will hit hard, but the Panthers' system ensures the next player is always ready to step up. Players like Liam Henry and Lindsay Smith are set to become key figures, adding to the front-row rotation alongside Papali'i.

A major advantage for the Panthers is that, unlike many teams that rely on one or two key players, they boast a well-rounded squad. While Penrith has superstars like Nathan Cleary (arguably the best player in the NRL), Golden Boot winner Isaah Yeo, Clive Churchill Medal winner Liam Martin, Dylan Edwards, and Brian To'o, their strength lies in their depth. Hard-working players like Luke Garner, Scott Sorensen, and rising juniors ensure a strong team foundation.

Another often-overlooked factor is that Penrith finished in second place in 2024 despite missing Cleary for more than half the season. If they can keep him healthy in 2025, a lot of teams will be worried.

Why they won't

History is against the Panthers winning a fifth straight premiership—though history was against them in all four of their Grand Final victories for different reasons. The lack of motivation that sometimes affects teams after sustained success won't be an issue, so that concern is ruled out.

While it's not a belief I particularly subscribe to, some are questioning the Panthers' depth heading into 2025. It's a fair argument, given the number of key players they have lost, and integrating new signings into the system may take time.

Another potential hurdle is the ‘Vegas Hangover.' In 2024, only one of the four teams that participated in the Las Vegas opener made the finals. If the Panthers get off to a slow start in 2025, they could find themselves playing catch-up. Additionally, the State of Origin period has historically been tough for Penrith, and if emerging players like Lindsay Smith (who debuted for the Kangaroos) get called up, it could further test their depth.

2025 fixture list

Key players

Rather than focusing on the obvious names like Cleary, Yeo, Edwards, and To'o, the key players for the Panthers in 2025 will be those stepping up to fill gaps.

Blaize Talagi will be crucial. The role vacated by Jarome Luai has been one of the most dynamic in Penrith's system, and Talagi has shown at Parramatta that he has the skill set to succeed. However, adjusting to a new system at the highest level can be challenging. Additionally, both Cleary and Talagi are coming off shoulder injuries, which could impact their early-season chemistry.

Liam Henry will play a vital role in the front row alongside Lindsay Smith. With big boots to fill, these two will need to step up as forward leaders to ensure the Panthers maintain their strong middle-game dominance.

Paul Alamoti, the Grand Final hero and fan favorite, is another key player. The Tongan international was let go by the Bulldogs at the end of 2023 when they signed Stephen Crichton, allowing the Panthers to swoop in. Alamoti started 2024 in NSW Cup but quickly cemented his spot in the NRL side following the departure of Taylan May. He will be crucial for Penrith on the edges.

Rookies

The McLean brothers, Casey and Jesse, will be two players to watch in 2025. Both are battling to fill the vacant spot left by Sunia Turuva's departure. Their strong performances in past NRL appearances and preseason games suggest they are ready to make an impact.

Another exciting prospect is Harry Hassett. Though his name may not yet be widely recognized outside the Panthers' fanbase, the junior star excelled in the Jersey Flegg side before seamlessly transitioning to NSW Cup. Yet to make his NRL debut, Hassett is a promising talent in the second row and could become a key player for Penrith moving forward.

Player movement

IN: Isaiah Papali'i (Wests Tigers), Blaize Talagi (Parramatta)

TOP 30: Asu Kepaoa, Blaize Talagi, Brad Schneider, Brian To'o, Casey McLean, Daine Laurie, Dylan Edwards, Harrison Hassett, Isaah Yeo, Isaiah Papali'i, Izack Tago, Jack Cole, Jesse McLean, Casey McLean, Liam Henry, Liam Martin, Lindsay Smith, Luke Garner, Luke Sommerton, Luron Patea, Mavrik Geyer, Matt Eisenhuth, Mitch Kenny, Moses Leota, Nathan Cleary, Paul Alamoti, Preston Riki, Riley Price, Scott Sorensen, Soni Luke

OUT: Jarome Luai, Sunia Turuva (Wests Tigers), James Fisher-Harris (Warriors), Isaiah Iongi (Parramatta), Tyrone Peachey (retired)

DEVELOPMENT: Billy Scott, Trent Toelau

Predicted best 17

1. Dylan Edwards
2. McLean - either Jesse or Casey
3. Izack Tago
4. Paul Alamoti
5. Brian To'o
6. Blaize Talagi
7. Nathan Cleary
8. Lindsay Smith
9. Mitch Kenny
10. Moses Leota
11. Isaiah Papali'i
12. Liam Martin
13. Isaah Yeo

14. Daine Laurie
15. Liam Henry
16. Scott Sorensen
17. Luke Garner