The Penrith Panthers are gearing up for the 2025 NRL season with a blend of seasoned talent and emerging prospects, aiming to continue their dominance in the league.
**Predicted Best 17 for 2025:**
1. **Fullback:** Dylan Edwards
2. **Wingers:** Brian To’o and Paul Alamoti
3. **Centres:** Izack Tago and Casey McLean
4. **Halves:** Daine Laurie (Five-Eighth) and Nathan Cleary (Halfback)
5. **Props:** James Fisher-Harris and Moses Leota
6. **Hooker:** Mitch Kenny
7. **Second Rowers:** Liam Martin and Luke Garner
8. **Lock:** Isaah Yeo
9. **Interchange:** Spencer Leniu, Scott Sorensen, Soni Luke, and Lindsay Smith
This lineup combines the core of their premiership-winning squad with new additions like Paul Alamoti and Casey McLean, who are expected to make significant contributions.
**Player Contract Status:**
The Panthers have strategically secured the futures of key players:
– **Nathan Cleary:** Contracted until the end of 2027.
– **Brian To’o:** Committed through 2025, with recent affirmations of his intent to honor his contract despite external speculations.
– **Daine Laurie:** Re-signed in July 2024, providing depth in the halves and fullback positions.
– **Paul Alamoti:** Joined the Panthers in October 2024, expected to bolster the backline.
– **Blaize Talagi:** Signed a three-year deal starting in 2025, anticipated to add versatility across multiple positions.
Several players are entering the final year of their contracts in 2025, including Asu Kepaoa, Brad Schneider, and Soni Luke, making this season pivotal for their futures.
**Rookie Watch:**
– **Casey McLean:** The 18-year-old Kiwi sensation made headlines with a four-try debut for the Kiwis and is poised to fill the void left by departing players. His versatility and scoring ability make him a player to watch.
– **Blaize Talagi:** With a standout season for the Eels, Talagi’s move to Penrith is highly anticipated. His ability to play multiple positions offers valuable depth to the squad.
The Panthers’ blend of experienced campaigners and emerging talents positions them as formidable contenders for the 2025 NRL season. Their strategic recruitment and retention efforts reflect a commitment to sustained success, with rookies like McLean and Talagi expected to make immediate impacts.
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