Panthers Sign Le Blanc From Souths on One-Year Deal for 2027

The Penrith Panthers have confirmed the signing of young forward Liam Le Blanc from South Sydney on a one-year deal for the 2027 NRL season. The 22-year-old joins Penrith's Top 30 squad, with the club describing him as a hard-working middle forward known for his defence. Le Blanc has made 27 NRL appearances since debuting for the Rabbitohs in 2024, including six games in the 2026 season, after being told he would not remain at South Sydney beyond this year. Panthers general manager Shane Elford welcomed the arrival, with the club believing Le Blanc can develop further while adding competition to a forward pack that has lost premiership experience to the new Perth Bears. The signing lands just days before the NRL free agency window opens on Sunday, November 1, and gives Le Blanc the chance to reignite his career at the foot of the mountains under coach Ivan Cleary, following a path Penrith have made a habit of offering young forwards looking for a regular first-grade opportunity.