The 2025 NRL season was an unfamiliar landscape for the Penrith Panthers. For the first time in years, the mountain men weren’t looking down from the summit, but rather clawing their way up from the base. After a disastrous start that saw the three-time premiers sitting dead last after 12 rounds, the Panthers staged a mid-season revival that remains one of the gutsiest in recent memory. They eventually secured seventh place and fought their way to a Preliminary Final, only to be edged out 16–14 by the Brisbane Broncos at Suncorp Stadium.
While the “dynasty” tag was officially surrendered, the back end of 2025 revealed a core truth: Penrith’s defensive DNA remains intact. They finished the season as the competition’s statistical powerhouse in points conceded over the final ten weeks. However, the campaign also exposed critical fractures. The departure of long-term enforcers and the heavy reliance on Nathan Cleary’s kicking game created an imbalance that Ivan Cleary must address. As the Panthers look toward 2026, these five players hold the keys to returning the trophy to the foot of the mountains.
1. Blaize Talagi (The X-Factor)
Stepping into the shoes of Jarome Luai was never going to be an overnight transition. In 2025, Talagi showed glimpses of brilliance, but the burden of playmaking often fell too heavily on his halves partner. For Penrith to succeed in 2026, Talagi must evolve from a dangerous runner into a tactical general. His ability to develop a dependable long-kicking game will be vital in relieving the physical and mental pressure on Nathan Cleary.
2. Isaiah Papali’i (The Edge Enforcer)
With new edge combinations still finding their rhythm, the arrival of Isaiah Papali’i is perfectly timed. Penrith lacked a certain “bite” on the fringes in 2025, often struggling to contain the elite back-rowers of rival clubs. Papali’i brings a combination of footwork and raw aggression that has been missing. If he can forge a lethal partnership with the outside backs, Penrith’s attack will regain its multi-dimensional threat.
3. Casey McLean (The Rising Star)
At just 19, McLean became a beacon of hope during the 2025 finals series. His speed and defensive positioning were well beyond his years, but 2026 will be the “sophomore test.” With a full pre-season under his belt, McLean is expected to lock down a permanent center spot. His development into a consistent strike weapon will take the heat off veteran Brian To’o.
4. Lindsay Smith (The Engine Room Leader)
Life after James Fisher-Harris was always going to be difficult, but Lindsay Smith’s 2025 campaign proved he belongs at the elite level. As he enters 2026, Smith is no longer just a “reliable” forward; he is the leader of the pack. His ability to win the middle of the field and provide a platform for the spine is the foundation upon which Penrith’s “defensive steel” is built.
5. Nathan Cleary (The Mastermind)
It sounds cliché to name the captain, but Cleary’s role is more nuanced than ever. In 2025, his workload reached unsustainable levels as he attempted to mask the team’s inexperience. In 2026, Cleary’s success won’t be measured by how many points he scores, but by how effectively he trusts and delegates to his evolving support cast.
The road to the 2026 summit is steep, but the Panthers have proven that “resilience” is part of their identity. If these five individuals can bridge the gap between grit and dominance, the Western Sydney powerhouse may find itself holding the trophy once again.