The Penrith Panthers are making progress in securing key players amid a wave of looming free agency ahead of the 2024 NRL off-season. Hooker Mitch Kenny is reportedly advancing contract extension talks with the club, signaling his intention to remain with the Panthers beyond his current deal. Kenny, who has spent significant time recovering from a serious leg injury sustained against the Dolphins, has used his rehabilitation period to focus on off-field commitments, including contract negotiations.
With several prominent Panthers players—such as Nathan Cleary, Isaah Yeo, and Brian To’o—set to enter free agency on November 1, the club faces a challenging recruitment environment. Alongside Kenny, other notable names including Liam Martin, Moses Leota, Blaize Talagi, Paul Alamoti, and Isaiah Papali’i will also become eligible to explore options on the open market. This unprecedented number of potential departures has heightened concerns about retaining the core group responsible for Penrith’s recent dominance.
Despite those concerns, the Panthers remain optimistic about securing Kenny’s services. Club chief executive Matt Cameron expressed confidence that an agreement with the 28-year-old leader is forthcoming. Kenny, who has emerged as a vocal and influential figure within the squad, has also shown a willingness to support the club’s future leadership transition, endorsing Peter Wallace as the incoming head coach to succeed Ivan Cleary in 2028.
Meanwhile, the situation surrounding prop Moses Leota has attracted considerable attention. Leota was granted permission by the Panthers to explore interest from other clubs for the 2028 season, a move that surprised some within the organization. Several teams, including the Sydney Roosters and Wests Tigers, have reportedly expressed interest in the seasoned forward. The Roosters’ involvement is particularly notable considering their existing arrangement with Spencer Leniu, whose contract extends through 2027, opening the possibility of a formidable front-row pairing with Naufahu Whyte should Leota join them.
Penrith officials emphasized that the request to test the market came from Leota’s management rather than the club itself. The 30-year-old has been a key contributor to Penrith’s successful run of four consecutive premierships from 2021 to 2024, making his potential departure a significant consideration for the team’s future plans. The Panthers have stated their desire to retain Leota despite granting him the freedom to explore external opportunities.
As the November free agency date approaches, the Panthers face one of the most critical periods in their recent history, tasked with balancing contract renewals amid growing competition from rival clubs aiming to recruit some of the NRL’s most sought-after talents.