In a stunning turn of events, Mitchell Moses has departed the Parramatta Eels to join the Penrith Panthers on a lucrative two-year contract reportedly worth $2.2 million. The move comes as a direct response to Nathan Cleary’s unexpected switch to the Sydney Roosters, leaving a significant void in Penrith’s playmaking ranks.
A Strategic Acquisition
Moses, 30, has been one of the NRL’s premier halfbacks, known for his speed, vision, and game management. His departure from the Eels was confirmed in February 2025, when he signed a contract extension through to the end of 2027. However, the Panthers’ swift action to secure Moses underscores their commitment to maintaining their elite status in the competition.
Filling the Cleary Void
The Panthers’ decision to sign Moses is a strategic move to replace Cleary, who had been the linchpin of their success in recent years. Moses’s dynamic playing style and leadership qualities are seen as key assets that will complement the Panthers’ existing roster and maintain their competitive edge.
Moses’s Impact at Parramatta
During his tenure with the Eels, Moses was instrumental in their success, leading the team to multiple finals appearances and a Grand Final in 2022. His partnership with five-eighth Dylan Brown became one of the most formidable in the league. Moses’s ability to steer the team around the park and perform under pressure solidified his reputation as one of the game’s best halfbacks .
Looking Ahead
As Moses transitions to the Panthers, all eyes will be on how he integrates into the team’s structure and how his presence influences their performance in the 2025 NRL season. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see if Moses can replicate his success at Penrith and help the club continue its dominance in the league and provide needed additional strength to push to the top of the ladder and finals.