Rivals miss out as Panthers lock down premiership winner for another season

They’ve lost a couple of big name stars, but the Panthers have re-signed a premiership winner as they aim for a third title in a row.

Jaeman Salmon is staying in Penrith for another year. Picture: Matt King/Getty Images

The Panthers have re-signed premiership-winning utility Jaeman Salmon for the next 12 months, while veteran Matt Eisenhuth has also inked a new two-year deal.

Salmon was strongly linked with a move to the Bulldogs but has instead opted to stay at Penrith for the 2023 season.

The 23-year-old played 25 games for the Panthers last season and came off the bench in all three finals matches to help his side defend their 2021 title.

Jaeman Salmon has plenty to celebrate after signing a new deal. Picture: NRL Photos

The utility also filled in at five-eighth for three games while Nathan Cleary was out suspended, including the round 21 win over Canberra where he was called a “weak-gutted dog” by Raiders coach Ricky Stuart.

Eisenhuth didn’t feature in the finals but did bring up 100 career NRL matches during the season, while he also provided plenty of size and experience in their all-conquering reserve grade side.

“On behalf of all at Panthers, I’d like to congratulate Matt and Jaeman on their new deals with the club,” Panthers chief executive Matt Cameron said.

“Matt and Jaeman have both played important roles for the club over the past two seasons, and I look forward to seeing them remain at Panthers.”