Jett Cleary Seeks Release from Warriors to Join Father and Brother at Penrith
Jett Cleary has reportedly requested a release from the New Zealand Warriors to return to the Penrith Panthers for the 2027 NRL season. The move would allow him to play alongside his brother, Nathan, and under his father, Ivan, in Ivan's final year as coach.
Key takeaways
- Jett Cleary has reportedly asked the New Zealand Warriors for a release from his contract.
- He wishes to return to the Penrith Panthers for the 2027 NRL season.
- This potential move would see him play alongside his brother Nathan and under his father Ivan, who is coaching his final year.
- The Warriors are expected to seek compensation for Cleary's release.
What Happened
Jett Cleary, 21, has reportedly asked the New Zealand Warriors for a release from the final year of his contract. He aims to join the Penrith Panthers for the 2027 NRL season, a move that would reunite him with his brother, Nathan, and father, Ivan.
Cleary has not yet made his NRL debut but has shown promise in the NSW Cup since leaving the Panthers. His current contract with the Warriors extends through the end of 2027.
Why It Matters
The potential move presents a unique opportunity for the Cleary family in 2027. Ivan Cleary is slated to coach Penrith for his last year before handing over to Peter Wallace. Playing alongside his brother Nathan, who is also contracted to Penrith for next season, and under his father's coaching would be a significant personal milestone for Jett.
For Penrith, Jett's return could provide a needed young halves option amidst anticipated changes in the team's structure. Jack Cole is departing, and competition for the five-eighth role is ongoing. The Warriors, however, view Cleary's potential departure as a setback, especially after other players have also moved on, impacting their depth in the halves.
Background
Cleary originally joined the Warriors from Penrith on a three-year deal. The Warriors have yet to accept his release request and are expected to seek compensation. This could involve a financial settlement or a player swap.
While the Warriors have other halves options available for 2027, including Te Maire Martin, Tanah Boyd, and Chanel Harris-Tavita, they are facing challenges in building depth. Nathan Cleary's long-term future with the Panthers beyond 2027 also remains undecided.
Key Facts
- Jett Cleary has reportedly requested a release from the New Zealand Warriors.
- He seeks to join the Penrith Panthers for the 2027 NRL season.
- His father, Ivan Cleary, will coach Penrith for his final year in 2027.
- His brother, Nathan Cleary, is also contracted to the Panthers for the 2027 season.
- Jett Cleary is 21 years old and has yet to make his NRL debut.
- He is contracted to the Warriors through the end of 2027.
Sources reviewed
Project Chintan independently synthesized and analyzed information cross-checked across the sources listed above.
