Warriors Confirm Departure of Jett Cleary

Jett Cleary is poised to head back to Australia to join the Penrith Panthers in the upcoming season, reuniting with his brother Nathan Cleary and father Ivan Cleary.

The New Zealand Warriors have officially granted Cleary a release from his contract, which still had a year remaining.

Originally, Jett had inked a three-year deal with the Warriors in 2024, intending to join the team in 2025, making his unexpected request to depart a shock to the organisation based in New Zealand.

According to The Daily Telegraph, the aspiring playmaker expressed a strong wish to return to the Panthers, aiming to be coached by Ivan during his last season as the head coach of the club. Jett will make his exit following the conclusion of the 2026 season.

Andrew McFadden, general manager of recruitment, pathways, and development for the New Zealand Warriors, stated that while the club wanted Jett to continue, they understood his reasons for seeking an early departure.

"We were keen for Jett to stay, but we accept his reasons for wanting to go home," said the One New Zealand Warriors general manager.

"We look forward to him finishing the season well, and we wish him the best for what lies ahead."

Amidst injury concerns following Luke Metcalf's hamstring setback against the Broncos, it was speculated that Jett would be making his NRL debut prior to the finals.

Nevertheless, the team has opted to put Chanel Harris-Tavita in the number 7 jersey to lead moving forward.