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Penrith Panthers Circling Promising Young Halfback from Canberra Raiders
1 Aug
Summary
- Penrith Panthers interested in Canberra Raiders' young halfback Keahn Skipps
- Skipps, 20, has captained his Jersey Flegg side and shown potential in junior reps
- Panthers looking to future-proof their halves with Skipps or other options
As of August 1st, 2025, the Penrith Panthers are reportedly interested in acquiring Keahn Skipps, a promising young halfback currently part of Canberra Raiders' development system. The 20-year-old Skipps has captained his Jersey Flegg side and has been seen as a prodigious talent with a bright future in the NRL.
The highly rated playmaker has already shown glimpses of his potential in junior representative teams and trial fixtures. With Penrith's halves situation under scrutiny, the Panthers are believed to be leading the chase for Skipps, who is still contracted to the Raiders. The move could shape as a long-term succession plan for superstar Nathan Cleary or even a possible future partner in the halves if Cleary eventually shifts into more of a number 6 role.
Penrith's plans for their halves are already under the microscope, with Jarome Luai departing the club at the end of 2024 and an indifferent start to Blaize Talagi's halves career. Adding another rising half like Skipps would give the Panthers more flexibility moving forward, as they continue building one of the NRL's deepest playmaking pipelines.
