Nathan Cleary rules out Warriors move to protect brother's pathway

Panthers star Nathan Cleary said he is unlikely to join the New Zealand Warriors, explaining that a move would block the career path of his younger brother Jett, who is currently in the Warriors system. Cleary emphasized he wants to consider his options beyond the 2027 season and may become a free agent on November 1, but he is focusing on settling back into the Penrith Panthers after the recent State of Origin series.

He added that contract discussions will continue in the background while he returns to regular training. The comments came after the Panthers secured a 24‑18 victory over the Parramatta Eels, during which Cleary’s kick struck teammate Tallyn Da Silva, prompting a brief head‑injury assessment. Cleary checked on Da Silva’s condition on the field, saying he would not want to experience that himself.

Cleary’s statements keep him with the Panthers for now and close a major transfer rumor that has dominated NRL coverage this season.