As the Penrith Panthers prepare for the 2025 NRL season, head coach Ivan Cleary faces the task of assembling a formidable lineup amidst notable roster changes. The team has experienced the departure of key players such as Jarome Luai to the Wests Tigers and James Fisher-Harris, necessitating strategic recruitment and promotion from within to maintain their competitive edge.
**Key Departures and New Signings**
Jarome Luai’s move to the Wests Tigers leaves a significant vacancy in the halves. To address this, the Panthers have secured the services of Blaize Talagi from the Parramatta Eels on a three-year deal starting in 2025. Talagi, who scored 11 tries in 16 games for the Eels, is anticipated to fill the void left by Luai. ([news.com.au](https://www.news.com.au/sport/nrl/blaize-of-glory-panthers-confirm-signing-of-blaize-talagi-for-the-next-three-seasons/news-story/ae38d57170fa61717b9d67680f45b440?utm_source=chatgpt.com))
In the forward pack, the departure of James Fisher-Harris has been mitigated by the acquisition of Isaiah Papali’i from the Wests Tigers. Papali’i aims to integrate into Penrith’s established forward rotation, which includes stalwarts like Isaah Yeo, Liam Martin, and Scott Sorensen. ([dailytelegraph.com.au](https://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/sport/nrl/nrl-2025-panthers-recruit-isaiah-papalii-opens-up-on-panthers-switch/news-story/095090d299bd89137b3036a8c6239340?utm_source=chatgpt.com))
Additionally, the Panthers have signed promising young centre Paul Alamoti from the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs. Alamoti’s versatility and performance, including a standout game in the 2024 preliminary final where he scored two tries, make him a valuable addition to the backline
**Projected 15-Man Lineup for the 2025 Season**
1. **Fullback**: Dylan Edwards – A consistent performer known for his reliability and work rate at the back.
2. **Wingers**: Brian To’o and Sunia Turuva – To’o’s powerful runs and Turuva’s speed provide potent attacking options on the flanks.
3. **Centres**: Stephen Crichton and Paul Alamoti – Crichton’s experience combined with Alamoti’s emerging talent offers a balanced centre pairing.
4. **Halves**: Nathan Cleary (captain) and Blaize Talagi – Cleary’s leadership and game management alongside Talagi’s fresh dynamism aim to drive the team’s offensive strategies.
5. **Props**: Moses Leota and Spencer Leniu – Both bring physicality and go-forward in the middle of the park.
6. **Hooker**: Mitch Kenny – Stepping into a more prominent role, Kenny’s service from dummy half will be crucial.
7. **Second Rowers**: Liam Martin and Isaiah Papali’i – Martin’s work ethic paired with Papali’i’s strength adds depth to the back row.
8. **Lock**: Isaah Yeo – As a co-captain, Yeo’s ball-playing abilities and defensive prowess anchor the forward pack.
**Interchange Bench**:
9. **Scott Sorensen** – Offers versatility and impact off the bench in the back row.
10. **Luke Sommerton** – A young hooker providing relief for Kenny and adding spark around the ruck.
11. **Lindsay Smith** – A prop forward bringing additional size and strength to the rotation.
12. **Tyrone Peachey** – A utility player capable of covering multiple positions, offering tactical flexibility.
13. **Jaeman Salmon** – Adds depth to the halves and backline, ensuring coverage across key areas.
This projected lineup blends seasoned campaigners with emerging talents, reflecting the Panthers’ strategy of maintaining a strong core while integrating new players to sustain their dominance in the NRL. The combination of experienced leaders and fresh recruits positions Penrith to remain a formidable force in the upcoming season.
