Jett Cleary Age and Career Highlights 2025

Jett Cleary is quickly emerging as one of rugby league’s most talked-about young talents. Jett is well-known for his strong game sense, calm attitude and exceptional physical talents. He is getting recognized for more than just being “Nathan Cleary’s younger brother.” Jett Cleary is 21 years old as of 2026 and his career is already showing signs of grandeur.

This article explores his age upbringing, professional career and what makes him one of the top halfbacks for rugby fans in Australia and New Zealand.

Family and Early Life

Jett Cleary was born on 2 April 2005 in Auckland, New Zealand, to one of rugby league’s most well-known families. His father, Ivan Cleary played in the NRL and is now a highly successful coach. Nathan Cleary, his brother is the Penrith Panthers’ co-captain and one of the best playmakers in contemporary rugby league.

Growing up around rugby league made it natural for Jett to fall in love with the sport. As his father’s coaching career changed he went back and forth between New Zealand and Australia as a child. This exposed him to two distinct rugby cultures and helped him shape his playing style: disciplined like an Australian youngster and instinctive like a Kiwi.

Jett has stated multiple times that he wants to create his own brand for himself focusing on hard work rather than his family name.

Junior Career and Growth

Jett began his professional career playing junior football for the Brothers Penrith club in New South Wales. He attended St. Dominic’s College in Penrith, which is known for producing a lot of outstanding rugby players.

Jett was well-known as a teenager for his quick kicking, smart passing and field-reading abilities. All of these characteristics are clearly passed down via the Cleary family.

Coaches and teammates have praised his demeanor and modesty, describing him as a young athlete who naturally listens, learns and leads. By his late teens, he had demonstrated the ability to play at a higher level.

Career path: Penrith to Warriors

Jett made a big decision in April 2024 signing a three-year contract with the New Zealand Warriors. He left Penrith to establish his identity. The transfer was widely reported in Australian sports media and analysts believed it was a sensible option because the Warriors provided him a greater chance to gain first-team experience.

Jett has worked hard with instructors since joining the Warriors to enhance his defense and competitiveness. His natural ability to make plays and maintain his poise on the field have already made him a standout in the NSW Cup.

How they play: calm imaginative and smart

While Jett shares some similarities with Nathan — particularly his cool temperament and strategic mindset — he has developed his own style. He plays with maturity beyond his years, controlling the tempo, delivering accurate passes and choosing smart short-kick options.

Jett has pleased educators with his natural leadership and strong work ethic even though he is still developing. He is one of the most promising young halves in the NRL system because he can make solid decisions when they matter and transform his game on the spot.

Fans have noted that Jett does not rely on flashiness; rather, he plays smart rugby that emphasizes strategy, timing and teamwork.

Why You Should Keep an Eye on Jett Cleary

For Australian rugby fans, Jett’s rise is more than just another story about a famous sporting family. It demonstrates the next generation of talent: athletes who are skillful disciplined and modest.

Many pundits and fans are optimistic about Jett’s future for the following reasons:

• Strong foundation: His father and brother, both talented rugby league players have taught him a lot.
• Maturity at a young age: At just 21, he remains calm under pressure which is uncommon among sportsmen early in their careers.
• A high work ethic: He is well-known for his strict approach to training and match preparation.
• Potential to grow: As he gains more first-grade minutes his decision-making and confidence will only improve.

If Jett continues to improve at this rate he might become a regular in the NRL and eventually play for Australia or New Zealand.

The relationship between Australian fans

Jett now plays for the Warriors, but he maintains strong links to Australia, which keeps him in touch with Australian fans. He grew up in Penrith and trained in Australian youth systems so he remains a well-known figure among NRL fans across the country.

For many Australians, the Cleary name is synonymous with brilliance and professionalism in rugby league. Fans who appreciate independence and determination will relate to Jett’s decision to take his own path rather than just following his sister.

Conclusion

Jett Cleary will be 21 years old in 2026 and is becoming one of rugby league’s most exciting young stars. He represents the game’s future because he comes from a prominent family and is motivated to make his own imprint. He joined the Warriors, is progressively improving and maintains a disciplined mindset, all of which lead to a successful NRL future.

Jett Cleary’s story is about more than simply his potential with Australian fans. It’s also about his enthusiasm, tenacity and the journey of a young athlete coming out of the shadows to shine on his own terms.