BREAKING NEWS: Penrith Panthers Star Nathan Cleary Rejects Historic $205 Million NIL Offer from Brisbane Broncos — “My Loyalty Lies with the Panthers”
Penrith, NSW — July 5, 2025
In one of the most jaw-dropping moments in modern rugby league history, Penrith Panthers co-captain Nathan Cleary has reportedly turned down a record-smashing $205 million NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) offer from the Brisbane Broncos, citing his unwavering loyalty to the Panthers and his deep connection to the club that helped shape his career.
The deal, believed to be the richest NIL package ever offered to a rugby league player, would have seen Cleary become the face of the Broncos across all major media platforms and commercial partnerships over the next five years. It also
included endorsement deals, branded merchandise, exclusive content rights, and revenue shares tied to ticketing and digital media.
But Cleary’s response was as swift and definitive as one of his trademark cut-out passes.
“My loyalty lies with the Panthers,” Cleary said in a statement released by his management team on Friday evening. “This club raised me, gave me my first opportunity, and believed in me from the very beginning. No amount of money can replace what I feel for Penrith — the culture, the fans, the community. I’m here to win, to lead, and to inspire the next generation right here at home.”
A Staggering Offer
Sources close to the negotiations suggest that Brisbane Broncos officials made the unprecedented NIL offer earlier this month, aiming to lure the superstar halfback away from the Panthers and cement him as the centerpiece of their long-term revival strategy. The $205 million offer was reportedly backed by a coalition of corporate partners, digital streaming rights platforms, and private investors seeking to build a multi-sport media brand around Cleary.
“Nathan was their dream signing,” a league insider told Rugby League Report. “The Broncos believed securing him would not only transform their club but also redefine the NRL landscape. They were willing to throw the bank at him.”
Despite the tempting offer, Cleary — already a three-time NRL premiership winner and Clive Churchill Medalist — held firm. His decision has been met with widespread praise from fans, analysts, and former players alike.
Reaction Across the League
Penrith Panthers head coach Ivan Cleary, who also happens to be Nathan’s father, called the decision “a testament to Nathan’s character and sense of purpose.”
“He’s more than just a great player — he’s a Panther through and through,” the elder Cleary said during Saturday’s press conference. “He’s earned the right to make decisions for the right reasons, and that’s exactly what he’s done here.”
Broncos CEO Dave Donaghy released a short statement congratulating Cleary on his commitment and expressing the club’s admiration for him as both a player and a person.
“While we’re disappointed, we respect Nathan’s decision and appreciate the professional manner in which discussions were held,” Donaghy stated. “He’s a generational talent, and we wish him continued success.”
Why He Stayed
Cleary’s commitment to Penrith comes at a time when player movement and commercial incentives are more dynamic than ever in the NRL. Yet, for Cleary, the decision seemed grounded in more than just loyalty — it’s about legacy.
“I’ve worked so hard with my teammates to build something special here,” Cleary added. “We’ve built a brotherhood. The work isn’t finished. I want to win more, achieve more, and do it wearing the Panthers jersey.”
He also acknowledged the impact his decision might have on the next generation of players, many of whom look up to him as a role model.
“If this teaches one young player that loyalty, hard work, and belief matter more than money, then it’s worth it,” Cleary said.
What’s Next for the Panthers
With Cleary’s future secured — at least for now — the Panthers front office can continue building around their superstar. Talks are already underway to restructure his existing contract to better reflect his market value while maintaining salary cap compliance.
Cleary is currently under contract with the Panthers until the end of 2027, with a player option extending to 2028. The club is also working to retain other key pieces such as Dylan Edwards, Brian To’o, and Isaah Yeo in an effort to keep their championship core intact.
The Bigger Picture
While the $205 million NIL offer may seem unfathomable to traditionalists, it signals a new era in rugby league — one where players’ off-field marketability is becoming just as valuable as their on-field talent. Nathan Cleary, already a national icon and global ambassador for the sport, had the chance to pioneer this frontier.
Instead, he chose home.
And in doing so, he’s reminded the entire sporting world that some things — legacy, loyalty, and love for the game — are truly priceless.
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