Nathan Cleary: Earning His Place Among NRL Greats, Say Legends Like Johns and Cronk
In the fiercely competitive world of the NRL, the term “great” is reserved for players who not only dominate the field but also redefine the game. For many fans and pundits, that title is hard-earned, often requiring years of consistent excellence, big-game performances, and leadership under pressure. Today, Nathan Cleary is increasingly finding himself mentioned in that elite conversation — and not just by fans or media, but by some of the greatest players the game has ever seen.
Legends like Andrew Johns, Cooper Cronk, Cameron Smith, and Darren Lockyer all of whom have carved their names into rugby league folklore have openly praised Cleary’s development and impact. That endorsement carries weight. When a player of Andrew Johns’ caliber, an Immortal of the game and arguably the most complete halfback in rugby league history, singles Cleary out as a generational talent, it forces even the harshest skeptics to pay attention.
The Complete Halfback
Johns has repeatedly referred to Cleary as “the most complete halfback in the game today.” That’s not faint praise. Coming from a player who revolutionized the No.7 jersey with his vision, kicking game, and competitiveness, the endorsement is significant. Johns has praised Cleary’s tactical awareness, defensive effort, and especially his ability to perform in high-stakes matches — such as his Clive Churchill Medal-winning performance in the 2023 Grand Final, often cited as one of the greatest comebacks in modern NRL history.
Similarly, Cooper Cronk — known for his clinical precision and deep tactical mind has emphasized Cleary’s dedication to preparation, mental resilience, and continual improvement. “What impresses me most about Nathan is his willingness to learn and adapt,” Cronk said in a Fox League segment. “He’s not chasing highlight reels. He’s chasing greatness the hard way: with discipline, detail, and relentless consistency.”
The Numbers Don’t Lie
Nathan Cleary’s stats speak for themselves. Multiple premierships with the Penrith Panthers, Origin victories with New South Wales, and individual accolades like the Dally M Halfback of the Year only add to his growing legacy. By 26, Cleary has already achieved what many players dream of in a full career and yet, his best years may still lie ahead.
His composure, game management, and ability to elevate those around him mirror the traits of all-time great playmakers. It’s not just about his powerful right boot or his precise passing it’s the aura he brings, the calm in chaos, the leadership when things are falling apart.
Leadership Beyond the Numbers
Cleary’s maturity as a leader has also caught the eye of former captains like Cameron Smith. “What he’s doing at such a young age is rare,” Smith noted. “He’s leading a team that everyone is hunting. He takes responsibility, whether it’s kicking a match-winner or owning a mistake.
What separates great players from very good ones is how they influence not just games, but entire seasons and sometimes, eras. Cleary is beginning to enter that rare air.
Without Gordon Tallis? Still Valid
While Gordon Tallis, a dominant forward of his era, has not joined the chorus of praise and has even been critical of aspects of Cleary’s game in the past the consensus among other NRL greats is undeniable. And perhaps that makes the discussion richer. Not all greats have to agree for someone to be great — but when most of the best minds in rugby league history recognize it, you can’t ignore the signal.
Conclusion: A Legacy in Motion
Nathan Cleary is no longer just a young prodigy or a promising halfback. With every high-pressure play, with every composed finish, and with every premiership ring, he builds his case. When legends like Johns, Cronk, Lockyer, and Smith see him as a peer in greatness, the rugby league world must listen — because greatness, when seen by greatness, is rarely wrong.
