Tom Jenkins set for Penrith comeback after Knights exit

Speedy winger Tom Jenkins may be on the verge of a homecoming to Penrith as the Panthers look to replace departing flyer Sunia Turuva, who has signed a lucrative deal with the Wests Tigers for the 2025 NRL season.

Jenkins, 23, originally hails from the Riverina and made a strong impression during his NRL debut season with the Panthers in 2022, scoring five tries in just six appearances.

His form earned him a two-year deal with the Newcastle Knights, but the move failed to bear fruit, with Jenkins managing only five games before being granted an early release for 2025.

With Turuva leaving the Panthers after securing two premierships, Jenkins has emerged as a strong candidate to fill the void.

Reports suggest he could rejoin the Panthers via their junior affiliate, St Mary’s, and work his way back to first-grade contention through the Ron Massey Cup and NSW Cup.

Despite his recent struggles at Newcastle, Jenkins’ speed and evasive prowess make him a promising option for Penrith.

If given an opportunity, he could once again showcase the try-scoring ability that marked his debut season.

Young talent has flourished at the Panthers, and a return to familiar territory could reignite Jenkins’ NRL career as the Penrith look to attempt a historic five-peat, with top NRL bookmakers pricing them as a $4.75 hope.

Meanwhile, Turuva’s move to the Tigers signals the end of a successful stint in Penrith, leaving fans hopeful that Jenkins can replicate some of Turuva’s brilliance in the seasons to come.

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