The Panthers have received a massive boost ahead of the new season with representative prop Lindsay Smith inking an extension with the club.
It is a blow to the Perth Bears who had hopes of signing the Kangaroos forward, but he will now stay with the Panthers until at least the end of the 2029 season.
Watch the 2026 NRL Pre-season series plus the All-Star matches LIVE and ad-break free during play on FOX LEAGUE, available on Kayo Sports | New to Kayo? Join now and get your first month for just $1.
WHAT’S GAMBLING REALLY COSTING YOU? Set a deposit limit. For Free and confidential support call 1800 858 858 or visit gamblinghelponline.org.au.
The 26-year-old has scored eight tries in 80 games for the Panthers since his debut in 2021, winning two titles and has played two Tests for the Kangaroos to date.
“Penrith Panthers is thrilled to announce that Lindsay Smith has re-signed with the club for a further three seasons, which will see him remain in Panthers colours until the end of 2029,” the club said in a statement.
“The Panthers look forward to Smith’s continued impact in Panthers colours over the coming seasons.”
Panthers coach Ivan Cleary said Smith’s re-signing is a major boost for the club.
“Lindsay is a tremendous asset to our team, both in what he delivers on the field and the standards he sets every day at training. His work ethic, consistency and physicality are invaluable to our forward pack.”
Panthers General Manager Shane Elford said securing Smith’s future was a key priority for the club.
“Lindsay is developing into one of the elite props in the competition, and we’re extremely pleased to have re-signed him,” Elford said.
“He has come through our pathways and understands what it means to represent the Panthers and our community.”
Watch the 2026 World Club Challenge LIVE and ad-break free during play on FOX LEAGUE, available on Kayo Sports | New to Kayo? Join now and get your first month for just $1.
What made Payne Haas leave Brisbane? | 06:10
MORE NRL NEWS
‘DOES WEAR THIN’: Madge is a ‘gun for hire’ winner. But must he ‘change’ to stay
PREDICTED ORIGIN TEAMS: Forgotten Blues enforcer, revived Maroons ace
CRAWLS: Verdict on Roosters star’s future after Origin switch; Souths’ halves bolter
Panthers CEO Matt Cameron said Smith embodies the values of the club.
“Lindsay is not only an outstanding footballer, he’s an exceptional person who represents this club with humility and pride,” Cameron said.
“He is a terrific fit for our culture and a role model for our younger players coming through the system. His re-signing is an example of our club’s built-from-within mantra.”
Get all the latest news, highlights and analysis delivered straight to your inbox with Fox Sports NRL Sportmail. Sign up now!!!
Will Willie Peters coach in the NRL? | 05:43
2026 SEASON PREVIEWS
DOLPHINS: They are the ultimate entertainers… but can’t ignore darker reality
EELS: Ruthless roster calls sent a clear message… now revolution faces its biggest test
TITANS: Big roster question for new coach… and $12m mistake he can’t afford to make
A St Marys junior, Smith joined the Panthers pathways program at the age of 14 through the club’s Junior Elite Training Scheme and has progressed through every level of the club’s development system.
The 26-year-old former Australian Schoolboys representative made his NRL debut for the Panthers in 2021 and has since established himself as one of the competition’s premier front-rowers.
As well as playing in two premiership-winning grand finals, Smith has represented Australia in two Test matches and was selected in the NSW State of Origin squad last season.
Discussion about this post