In a bold and unexpected recruitment move, the Penrith Panthers have confirmed the signing of veteran prop David Klemmer on a two-year deal reportedly worth $900,000.
The 31-year-old enforcer will join the club ahead of the 2026 NRL season, bringing over a decade of NRL experience to a Panthers side looking to reinforce its forward pack amid looming departures.
Klemmer, who most recently played with the Wests Tigers, is expected to play a mentoring role for Penrith’s rising stars while adding significant punch to the middle third of the field. The signing is seen as a calculated play by Penrith to balance youth with seasoned leadership.
> “David is a proven competitor,” Panthers General Manager of Rugby League Matt Cameron said in a brief statement. “We believe his experience and professionalism will be a valuable asset to our squad on and off the field.”
Klemmer debuted in 2013 with the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs and has since made over 200 NRL appearances, including stints with the Newcastle Knights and Tigers. He has also represented New South Wales in State of Origin and played for Australia at the international level.
The deal, reportedly worth $450,000 per season, comes at a time when the Panthers are set to part ways with a number of key forwards due to salary cap pressures and representative call-ups. Klemmer’s arrival provides a steady presence up front while offering mentor support to the likes of Lindsay Smith, Mavrik Geyer, and Liam Henry.
While some critics have questioned the move based on Klemmer’s age, Panthers insiders are confident the veteran still has plenty to offer.
> “He’s been in great physical shape and brings the type of edge we’ll need in those tough matches,” a Panthers insider told NRL Central. “This isn’t just a short-term fix — it’s a strategic addition.”
Klemmer is expected to commence pre-season training with the Panthers in November 2025, pending medical clearance and final registration.
