As the Penrith Panthers pursue a fifth consecutive NRL premiership in 2025, two of their promising forwards, Harrison Hassett and Mavrik Geyer, both off-contract at season’s end, have caught the attention of rival NRL clubs, per *Zero Tackle* and a post on X by @centralNRL (July 3, 2025). The duo, products of Penrith’s renowned pathways system, are set to test the open market, joining a list of stars like Jarome Luai and Stephen Crichton who have left the club due to salary cap pressures, per *Zero Tackle*.
– **Harrison Hassett**: The 21-year-old centre-turned-forward made his NRL debut in 2025, playing five games and scoring a try against the Rabbitohs in Round 18, per *penrithpanthers.com.au*. His versatility and work rate, showcased in a 30-26 win over South Sydney, have drawn interest from clubs like the Bulldogs and Roosters, per *News Corp*. Penrith remains keen to retain him, but his lack of a 2026 contract has sparked bidding, per @centralNRL. Hassett’s junior stats—12 tries in 22 SG Ball games—highlight his potential, per *nrl.com*.
– **Mavrik Geyer**: The 24-year-old second-rower, son of Panthers legend Mark Geyer, has appeared in 10 NRL games since his 2024 debut, including three in 2025. Known for his aggressive defense and offloading (averaging 0.8 per game), Geyer’s local roots and 2024 NSW Cup Player of the Year award make him a target for teams like the Dragons and Titans, per *News Corp*. His 69% tackle efficiency against top forwards like Cameron Murray has boosted his stock, per *nrl.com*.
Penrith’s salary cap constraints, exacerbated by injuries to Nathan Cleary and Mitch Kenny, limit their ability to retain both players, per *The Guardian*. The Panthers’ focus on re-signing stars like Isaiah Papali’i and promoting juniors like Blaize Talagi from Parramatta, per *Sporting News Australia*, may force tough decisions. Rival clubs see Hassett and Geyer as cost-effective additions with high upside, given Penrith’s track record of producing elite talent. The duo’s next moves will hinge on offers as the season progresses toward the finals in August 2025.
