Dragons Speedster Tyrell Sloan: ‘Dangerous’ Attack Specialist Agrees Terms with Panthers as Ivan Cleary Set to Add Firepower to Panthers Frontline
Penrith Panthers are on the verge of finalising one of the most exciting signings of the NRL season, with reports confirming that St. George Illawarra Dragons speedster Tyrell Sloan has agreed terms to join the reigning powerhouse club. The 22-year-old, dubbed a “dangerous” attacking weapon by pundits across the league, is set to link up with Ivan Cleary’s squad ahead of the 2026 campaign in a move that could significantly bolster the Panthers’ already lethal backline.
Sloan, known for his blistering pace, electric footwork, and instinctive try-scoring ability, has long been considered one of the brightest young talents in the game. After several seasons with the Dragons, where moments of brilliance often shone through in a struggling team, Sloan now has the opportunity to flourish in a top-tier system under one of the NRL’s most successful coaches.
The Panthers, looking to evolve their backline following Dylan Edwards’ departure to the Dolphins earlier this year, have wasted no time in identifying Sloan as the ideal replacement. Club sources have confirmed that Sloan has agreed to a multi-year deal, believed to be worth close to $1.8 million over three seasons.
Panthers head coach Ivan Cleary is reportedly “thrilled” by the acquisition and sees Sloan as a perfect fit for the club’s fast-paced, expansive style of play.
“Tyrell is an incredible talent,” Cleary said in a brief statement. “He brings a spark to the game — that x-factor we love to build around. His speed, awareness, and ability to create something from nothing are going to give us another dimension in attack. I can’t wait to see what he can do in our system.”
Sloan’s move comes after a mixed 2024 season with the Dragons, where glimpses of his brilliance were overshadowed by inconsistent form from the team as a whole. Despite this, he managed to rack up 12 tries, 9 line breaks, and over 2,000 running metres — numbers that caught the eye of Panthers recruitment boss Jim Jones, who led negotiations with Sloan’s management.
One Panthers insider said:
“We see Tyrell as a long-term fullback or winger depending on the game plan. He’s got superstar potential, and in our environment, he could explode.”
The move is expected to be officially announced within the next week, with Sloan reportedly excited by the opportunity to challenge for titles and develop under Cleary’s guidance. The speedster is currently undergoing final medical assessments and is expected to be unveiled at BlueBet Stadium once pre-season preparations begin.
As the Panthers aim to continue their dynasty, adding Sloan — a game-breaker in every sense — could prove to be one of the shrewdest moves of the off-season. Fans can expect fireworks when the “dangerous” Noongar flyer dons the black jersey in 2026.
