Chiefs continue recruitment drive
The PNG Chiefs have announced the signing of Brian To’o, a prominent Samoan international and winger, for their inaugural NRL Telstra Premiership season in 2028. To’o will join the expansion club on a three-year deal after concluding his current contract with the Penrith Panthers in 2027. This acquisition marks another significant step in the Chiefs’ aggressive recruitment strategy as they build their roster.
To’o is the sixth player to officially commit to the NRL’s 19th team. He will reunite with former Panthers teammate Jarome Luai, who was an earlier marquee signing for the club. Other notable players joining the Chiefs include Zac Lomax, Alex Johnston, and Connor Watson, alongside Englishman Matty Lees.
Impact of To’o’s signing
The signing of To’o is viewed as a major boost for the Chiefs, with general manager Michael Chammas and head coach Willie Peters actively building a squad featuring representative stars. To’o brings a record of success, including four NRL Premierships with the Panthers, 17 State of Origin appearances for the NSW Blues, and 11 Tests for Samoa. He has played 151 NRL matches, scoring 99 tries.
Lorna McPherson, CEO of the PNG Chiefs, highlighted the broader significance of To’o’s arrival. She stated that the signing extends beyond football, emphasizing the club’s commitment to a strong Pacific identity. McPherson noted that To’o embodies values such as family, culture, community, and rugby league, which are deeply connected across the region. Chammas echoed these sentiments, stating that To’o understands family, sacrifice, humility, and togetherness, values shared across Papua New Guinea and the Pacific.
Penrith coach Ivan Cleary acknowledged To’o’s contributions to the Panthers, describing him as an exceptional player and an even better person. Cleary praised To’o as a great teammate, a devoted family man, and someone who brings energy and positivity to the club. He also mentioned that To’o has been a significant part of what the Panthers have built and expressed anticipation for one more season with him before his move to the Chiefs.
Building a competitive roster
While the Chiefs have secured several high-calibre players, some observers have cautioned about the need for squad depth. Wade Graham, a former Sharks player, commented on the importance of having a balanced squad to manage potential injuries over the 27-round regular season. He acknowledged the remarkable job the Chiefs are doing in signing top-tier players but stressed the necessity of depth beyond the initial 18. English great James Graham concurred, suggesting that attracting star players early could provide leverage for securing middle-tier players, making the Chiefs an attractive destination due to a competitive roster and potential tax-free incentives.
To’o has spent his entire NRL career with the Panthers, coming through their pathway system as a local junior from the St Mary’s Saints. He is a two-time Brad Fittler Medal winner. The Panthers, who won four consecutive premierships from 2021–2024, are currently at the top of the NRL ladder in 2026, aiming for a fifth title in six years. To’o will play out the remainder of his contract with the Panthers before joining the Chiefs in 2028.
The PNG Chiefs’ 2028 squad currently includes Jarome Luai, Alex Johnston, Connor Watson, Matty Lees, Zac Lomax, and Brian To’o.
Source: nine.com.au
