Isaiah Iongi, a young fullback for the Penrith Panthers, has managed to catch the attention of multiple clubs despite having played only one first-grade game. During his debut match against the Newcastle Knights, Iongi delivered an impressive performance, recording 257 running meters and eight tackle busts, showcasing his potential as a standout player.
Iongi has been seen as a promising candidate for the starting fullback position at the Panthers for some time. However, he is currently the third option behind Dylan Edwards and Daine Laurie, both of whom continue to perform well. This situation could potentially pave the way for other teams to consider acquiring Iongi, especially since he only has 12 months remaining on his current contract, which expires at the end of the 2025 NRL season.
From November 1, Iongi will be eligible to negotiate with rival clubs. His notable debut has sparked interest from various teams, marking him as a valuable target according to News Corp. Although no specific team has publicly confirmed their interest yet, several teams in the process of rebuilding, as well as those seeking a backup fullback, are likely to be keen on Iongi. Potential suitors include the Raiders, Roosters, Dragons, Broncos, and Eels.
Despite his limited first-grade experience, Iongi’s accolades speak volumes about his capabilities. He was named the NSW Cup Fullback of the Year in 2023, represented the U19s QLD Maroons, and was honored as the 2022 Panthers Jersey Flegg Cup Player of the Year. His consistent performance in these roles highlights his reliability and skill on the field.
Dylan Edwards, a representative of the NSW Blues, has spoken highly of Iongi. In an earlier interview with Zero Tackle, Edwards praised Iongi’s training ethic and skill level. “He’s been awesome. He’s been awesome for a little bit now,” Edwards said. “He’s trained with us for a while. He always trains really well and he’s a good skilful player. I think when he gets a crack, you can expect a lot of energy, really safe, really reliable player, so he’s one to watch out for.”
Iongi’s future in the NRL seems bright, with multiple clubs likely to vie for his services given his potential and the limited time remaining on his contract with the Panthers. His impressive debut and prior achievements have established him as a promising player, making him a significant prospect for teams looking to strengthen their roster with a reliable and skilled fullback.
