In a shock move that’s rocked the NRL, Penrith Panthers co-captain and star halfback Nathan Cleary has officially signed a four-year deal with the Dolphins worth a staggering $109 million. The record-breaking contract not only makes Cleary the highest-paid player in NRL history but also marks a massive coup for the Dolphins as they continue to build a powerhouse side.
Cleary, 27, will join the Dolphins ahead of the 2026 season, taking on the role of marquee playmaker and team leader under coach Wayne Bennett’s successor. The move ends his long-standing tenure with the Panthers, where he led the club to multiple premierships and solidified his reputation as one of the game’s elite.
In a statement, Cleary said, “It was an incredibly tough decision, but the opportunity to help build something special at the Dolphins and challenge myself in a new environment was too good to pass up.”
Dolphins CEO Terry Reader called the signing a “defining moment” in the club’s young history, while Penrith acknowledged Cleary’s immense contribution and legacy.
Fans are already counting down to the 2026 season, when Cleary will don the red and white, aiming to bring premiership glory to Redcliffe.
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