The Penrith Panthers are facing a tough reality check this season, and league legend Matty Johns believes one of the key issues lies with superstar halfback Nathan Cleary. The three-time defending NRL champions have stumbled in recent weeks, raising concerns about their form and direction, especially after Cleary’s return from injury failed to spark a major turnaround.
Speaking on Fox League, Johns highlighted that while Cleary remains an elite playmaker, he’s struggling to inject rhythm and structure into the Panthers’ attack. “Nathan’s trying to do it all — manage, organize, and be the strike player. And right now, it’s overwhelming,” Johns said. “The team isn’t flowing the way it used to.”
The Panthers have built their recent dynasty on a relentless, disciplined brand of rugby league with Cleary at the heart of it. But with key player movements, injuries, and a noticeable drop in form across the squad, Penrith’s aura of invincibility appears to be fading.
Johns emphasized the need for more support around Cleary, both in playmaking and leadership. “He’s carrying too much of the burden. He needs someone to take pressure off in attack, or teams will continue to shut him down.”
With mounting pressure and a challenging schedule ahead, the Panthers must find solutions quickly. As Matty Johns warns, unless the team adjusts and supports their star playmaker better, their hopes of a fourth consecutive premiership may be in jeopardy.
