ESPN Report — “My Time Here Is Over”: Nathan Cleary Stuns Rugby League World with Shock Brisbane Broncos Switch, Leaving Penrith Panthers Behind
In a bombshell that’s sending tremors through the heart of the NRL, superstar halfback Nathan Cleary has officially declared, “My time here is over,” after inking a massive four-year contract with the Brisbane Broncos—leaving Penrith Panthers fans in disbelief and grief.
The 27-year-old playmaker, a three-time Premiership-winning talisman and son of Panthers coach Ivan Cleary, dropped the announcement during a stunning press conference at Suncorp Stadium this morning, dressed in full Broncos colors for the first time.
> “It wasn’t an easy decision,” Cleary said, his voice quivering slightly. “Penrith is my home, my blood… but sometimes you need to chase a new fire.”The Transfer Heard ‘Round the League
Rumors had swirled for weeks that Brisbane were preparing a monster offer for Cleary, but few believed the Panthers co-captain would actually leave the o
8nly club he’s ever known. Yet, behind the scenes, the Broncos and Cleary’s camp were quietly working on a blockbuster $5.2 million deal over four years—now confirmed as the largest player contract in Brisbane’s history.
It’s a recruitment masterstroke for the Broncos, who were narrowly denied the premiership by Cleary’s brilliance in the 2023 Grand Final. Now, in a wild twist of fate, he’ll be donning the maroon and gold, not against them—but for themWhy Did H
