The Canberra Raiders are reportedly looking to strengthen their squad ahead of the 2026 NRL season with the Panthers Dane Laurie firmly on their radar.
The Panthers utility is said to be in advanced talks to join the Raiders on a three-year deal after he was not offered a contract extension beyond this season at Penrith.
The 26-year-old has previously played 75 NRL games across stints with Penrith and the Wests Tigers and at Penrith, has been a part of the Panthers premiership team in 2024.
Laurie’s ability to fill in for star fullback Dylan Edwards, as well as provide utility value across the Panthers’ outside backs, has been a key factor in their success.
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He has been particularly valuable during State of Origin periods, when the Panthers have had to rely on squad depth to maintain winning form with stars unavailable.
While the Raiders have fullback covered for the future with Kaeo Weekes, Laurie’s versatility offers cover in both the backline and the halves following Jamal Fogarty’s departure to the Sea Eagles for 2026.
Head coach Ricky Stuart is reportedly interested in Laurie’s capacity to provide dynamic attacking options, and with much of Canberra’s success built on a young roster, additional veteran leadership could be crucial.
No deal has been officially announced, but Laurie is expected to remain in the NRL rather than pursue an overseas stint.
His experience across multiple positions makes him a valuable addition for a team aiming to contend again after claiming the minor premiership but being eliminated in straight sets in the 2025 finals.
Part of Canberra’s exit this year can be attributed to the late withdrawal of star number six Ethan Strange from the preliminary final against the Sharks.
Simi Sasagi filled in for Strange, but he is more suited to playing in the forwards or as a fill in centre rather than starting in the halves.
This highlighted both the Raiders’ depth issues and the need for veteran leadership, areas where Laurie could have made a significant impact and potentially have changed the outcome.
If confirmed, Laurie’s move to the Green Machine could further bolster the Raiders in 2026, posing a serious threat to the rest of the NRL with their already strong, youthful core.