Panthers Utility Likely to Exit as Rival Club Circles for 202
Luke Garner’s time with the Penrith Panthers could be coming to an early close, with reports suggesting the club is open to releasing the versatile forward before the conclusion of his current contract, which runs through the end of the 2025 NRL season.
Garner, who can play both in the second row and in the centres, has struggled to secure a regular spot in Penrith’s first-grade lineup since his arrival. Despite being signed through next season, it now appears that he may not be part of the Panthers’ long-term vision.
According to a report by *Code Sports*, the Panthers have already granted Garner permission to negotiate with rival clubs ahead of the standard November 1 deadline for contract talks. This early clearance indicates that Penrith is willing to move on from the utility player, allowing him to explore future opportunities well before the usual negotiating window opens.
Speculation is mounting that Garner is close to securing a deal elsewhere for the 2026 season, with the Parramatta Eels reportedly showing the strongest interest. It’s believed that the Eels have tabled a three-year contract offer, highlighting their confidence in Garner’s ability to make a meaningful contribution, even as he recovers from recent injury setbacks.
Parramatta is currently in the midst of a major squad overhaul, following a difficult period in which results have not matched expectations. Adding a seasoned campaigner like Garner—who brings experience, adaptability, and a winning mentality—could be a valuable piece in their rebuilding efforts under new coach Jason Ryles. Should he join the Eels, Garner is expected to slot directly into their 17-man squad, either as a starter or a key bench player.
Garner first broke into the NRL in 2018 with the Wests Tigers, where he made 75 appearances over five seasons. Known for his hard-running lines and work rate, he was a solid contributor for the Tigers before making the switch to the reigning premiers, the Panthers, at the end of the 2022 season. Since his move to Penrith, Garner has made 39 appearances in two and a half seasons, though his impact has been limited at times due to injury and fierce competition for spots in a star-studded Panthers lineup.
Despite these challenges, Garner remains highly regarded across the league for his professionalism and utility value. He offers flexibility across multiple positions in the forward pack and backline, something that many clubs find particularly attractive. With the Eels currently undergoing a roster refresh, a dependable and experienced option like Garner could be exactly what they need to stabilize and bring leadership to the side.
The potential three-year offer from Parramatta is particularly notable given Garner’s recent injury history, suggesting the club is confident that his best football is still ahead of him. If he can return to full fitness, his work ethic and versatility could provide an immediate boost to the Eels, who are looking to bounce back from a challenging period of inconsistent performances and roster upheaval.
What Garner also brings is a championship pedigree. Though not always a regular starter, he has been part of the Panthers’ recent dominance, contributing to a culture that has delivered back-to-back premierships. That kind of experience is invaluable for a club like Parramatta, which has not tasted grand final success in decades and is desperate to build a winning mentality.
Garner’s ability to contribute both on and off the field makes him a desirable acquisition. His presence would likely lift standards at training and offer leadership to younger players making their way into the squad. As the Eels look to reestablish themselves as a top-tier side, bringing in proven performers from successful systems like Penrith’s could be a key part of their strategy.
Although the Eels appear to be the frontrunners in the race for Garner’s services, it’s currently unclear whether other NRL clubs have entered the frame with offers of their own. Given his ability to fill multiple roles and his background as a consistent performer when healthy, it’s possible that additional suitors may emerge as the 2025 season progresses and roster plans evolve.
For Penrith, the decision to allow Garner to explore his options early may be a strategic one. The club is known for managing its roster tightly, often moving players on to maintain salary cap flexibility and to provide opportunities for emerging talent from their highly-regarded junior system. By facilitating an early departure, they can free up a roster spot and potentially some cap space to invest in areas of greater need or reward younger players coming through the ranks.
As for Garner, a move to a club like Parramatta could reignite his career and offer the consistent first-grade minutes he has found hard to come by at Penrith. At 28 years old, he still has several strong seasons ahead of him if he can stay healthy, and the chance to play a leading role in a rebuilding side might be just what he needs to rediscover his best form.
With months still remaining in the current season, much can change, but it seems increasingly likely that 2025 will mark the end of Garner’s time at the foot of the mountains. Whether he finishes his contract with Penrith or departs earlier remains to be seen, but all signs point to a fresh start on the horizon—and possibly a central role in Parramatta’s resurgence.
