Andrew Johns has questioned whether Blaize Talagi has a long-term future with the Penrith Panthers after the young playmaker fell down Ivan Cleary’s pecking order ahead of the 2027 season.
Talagi began the year as Penrith’s first-choice five-eighth but has not started in the position since round 21. Jack Cogger has taken over the No 6 jersey, while Jack Cole has also been used when Cogger has been unavailable.
“Jett Cleary is coming back and then Jack Cole and Jack Cogger, plenty to see and a big off-season for Blaize,” Johns said.
Jett Cleary is due to join the Panthers in 2027 after the New Zealand Warriors agreed to release him from the final year of his contract. The 21-year-old made his NRL debut for the Warriors against Penrith on August 30.
The competition for places is further complicated by Cogger’s contract, which runs through to the end of 2028. Cole, meanwhile, is listed to leave Penrith for the Perth Bears at the conclusion of the 2026 campaign.
Talagi remains contracted to the Panthers until the end of 2027, but his recent exclusion has raised questions over whether he will remain at the club or seek an opportunity elsewhere.
His only appearance since round 21 came from the bench in Penrith’s round 24 defeat by the Sydney Roosters, when he played the final 15 minutes. He has subsequently been named among the replacements for the Panthers’ clash with the Wests Tigers.
