Penrith's unprecedented golden run in the NRL finally came to an end in 2025 as they were toppled in the preliminary finals.
The four-time premiers looked to be in severe trouble at the midway point of the season as they were anchored to the bottom of the ladder, although Ivan Cleary's side rallied to put themselves firmly in with a shout of claiming yet another premiership.
It wasn't to be for the Panthers in the end, but the rest of the competition can be assured that they will be back with plenty of motivation to reclaim their crown in 2026.
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Penrith Panthers predicted team list for Round 1
1. Dylan Edwards
2. Paul Alamoti
3. Izack Tago
4. Casey McLean
5. Brian To'o
6. Blaize Talagi
7. Nathan Cleary
8. Moses Leota
9. Mitch Kenny
10. Lindsay Smith
11. Liam Martin
12. Scott Sorensen
13. Isaah Yeo
14. Trent Toelau
15. Isaiah Papali'i
16. Liam Henry
17. Luron Patea
Panthers latest team news ahead of Round 1
Dylan Edwards will wear the No.1 jersey, with his main support Daine Laurie no longer around after he moved to Canberra.
Ivan Cleary took a while to settle on his backline last season during Penrith's horrible early run, but eventually he landed on a solid mix.
Thomas Jenkins jumped in front of Paul Alamoti in the queue before losing his spot to his teammate at the business end of the campaign. Alamoti will likely start on the flank in Round 1.
Meanwhile, Casey McLean made a centre spot his own and will lock down the position for years to come, with Brian To'o and Izack Tago expected to be ever-presents once again.
Blaize Talagi took some time to find his feet at the foot of the mountains, with Jack Cole preferred at the start of last season.
However, he warmed into the role and will continue to build on his partnership with Nathan Cleary.
Jack Cogger has returned to the club from Newcastle and will serve as the duo's main back-up in the halves.
Lindsay Smith stepped up following the departure of James Fisher-Harris last season and the prop will lead from the front alongside Moses Leota.
Mitch Kenny will get the nod at hooker, with support possibly provided by Trent Toelau following Brad Schneider's exit.
Liam Martin will start on an edge, while the spot on the opposite side of the field is up for grabs. Scott Sorensen could be the frontrunner, although Isaiah Papali'i and Luke Garner will also be in the mix.
Isaah Yeo will wear the No.13 jersey as usual.
Liam Henry and Luron Patea could provide the punch from off the bench as the duo continue to establish themselves in the side. Matt Eisenhuth is never far away from selection in the 17.