The Penrith Panthers, reigning NRL premiers and a benchmark for development success, have made another strategic move in their ongoing roster overhaul by securing the services of promising young playmaker Haami Loza from the Newcastle Knights.
As reported by respected journalist Peter Lang of The Western Weekender, Loza has officially agreed to terms with the Panthers and will link up with the club ahead of the 2026 season. The 21-year-old halfback is considered one of the Newcastle Knights’ most exciting prospects and has already made his mark at the NSW Cup level earlier this year.
Lang took to social media to confirm the move and offered high praise for the youngster:
“Haami has plenty of potential and will no doubt thrive in the Penrith Panthers pathways system.”
Loza’s signing adds to what is shaping up to be a significant shift in Penrith’s squad, with reports suggesting up to 10 players could depart the club in the upcoming off-season. While the Panthers have yet to formally confirm the full extent of their off-contract list, it’s clear that the reigning champions are planning for the future — and they’re targeting emerging talent to do it.
Building for the Future
Loza isn’t the only rising star heading west. Just weeks earlier, the Panthers confirmed the acquisition of Keahn Skipps from the Canberra Raiders. The 19-year-old was captain of the Raiders’ Jersey Flegg Cup Under-19 side and is regarded as one of the more polished young halves in the competition.
Skipps’ leadership qualities and tactical nous made him a standout in Canberra’s junior system, and now he will join forces — and likely compete — with Loza for a chance to eventually partner NRL superstar Nathan Cleary in the Panthers’ first-grade halves.
What makes Penrith’s recruitment strategy even more compelling is the development system they’ve become famous for. Under head coach Ivan Cleary and a strong pathways team, the Panthers have built a reputation as one of the best clubs in the league at turning raw talent into NRL stars. With Cleary himself an elite halfback and an expert in game management, both Loza and Skipps are in the perfect environment to grow.
A Club in Transition
Despite their recent dominance, Penrith’s depth is being tested by salary cap pressure and increasing interest in their players from rival clubs. Over the past few years, the Panthers have lost key players such as Api Koroisau, Viliame Kikau, Stephen Crichton, and Spencer Leniu — all vital parts of their premiership-winning core. The upcoming off-season looks set to continue that trend, with as many as 10 players expected to exit the club.
While losing experienced talent is always a challenge, Penrith’s proactive approach to recruitment ensures that the next generation is already being groomed. The arrival of Loza and Skipps is part of that long-term vision — reinforcing the Panthers’ commitment to sustainability and competitiveness even amid significant change.
What to Expect
Though still early in their careers, both Haami Loza and Keahn Skipps could be names NRL fans become very familiar with over the next few seasons. With access to world-class coaching, strong development programs, and the mentorship of one of the best halves in modern rugby league, the future is bright for both playmakers.
For Panthers fans, the message is clear: while change is inevitable, the club remains committed to staying at the top. By investing in youth and reinforcing their elite pathways system, Penrith is once again proving that they are building more than just a team they’re building a dynasty