This season, McLean surpassed rookie status, cementing his place in the Panthers’ lineup with standout performances in attack and defense.
Just over one year from his NRL debut the 19-year-old scored 16 tries, 16 line-breaks and 61 tackle breaks across 23 games. Entrusted with the left edge, coach Ivan Cleary praised McLean's defensive pressure, making 290 tackles, a notable load for a centre.
McLean had a key role in this year's electric preliminary final games, and is preparing to represent New Zealand in his second Pacific Championships. In 2024, he made his Test debut, scoring four tries in a 54-12 victory over Papua New Guinea.
The young gun is a testament to the Panthers junior system’s continued success, as he progressed through the club’s lower grades prior to his call up in June 2024.
McLean is locked into Penrith until the end of 2028 and predicted to be one of the standout young prospects in the NRL.
2025 ACHIEVEMENTS
- A top try scorer
- Solidified regular spot in first grade 23 matches
- Gained finals experience, playing in his first finals game
GALLERY
All the best photos of Casey McLean from the 2025 season.
STAT ATTACK
Appearances - 23
Tries - 16
Line breaks - 16
Running metres - 2888 (125 average metres)
Tackles made - 290
Tackle efficiency - 83.3%
BEST TRY
In Round 22, McLean sprinted from the 50m line to score this incredible try.
Casey McLean sprints away
WHAT WAS SAID
McLean attributed his success this season to self-confidence and team work.
My confidence grew from being able to hold my own. But it was also my teammates around me. They helped boost me up as well mentally by telling me what I’d just done and asking ‘why can’t you do this every week now?.. I’ve just kept building on that.
Casey McLean
SOCIAL SCENE
McLean celebrated the Round 16 win against the Warriors in New Zealand with partner, Leila.
