Rob Pannell will hit free agency on March 3 with the intention of winning a PLL championship in the final stretch of his career, a source close to Pannell told me. He has not ruled out a return to the California Redwoods. 

After considering retirement following the conclusion of the 2024 season, Pannell’s desire to win a PLL title still drives him. The former MVP is comfortable playing whatever role is necessary to do so. He has no qualms about working off of others or playing out of position. 

Pannell will officially become a free agent on March 3. With the Open Discussion period beginning today (Feb. 18), teams will be able to contact the 35-year-old starting at noon ET. 

Pannell is one of professional lacrosse’s all-time greats. He’s third in career points, fourth in goals and second in assists. He’s also an 11-time All-Star, an MLL champion and a two-time world champion with Team USA. 

The Cornell product has played for the Redwoods for the last four years after the Atlas traded him in February 2021. He’s been the club’s leader since his arrival, scoring an average of 32.8 points per season and piloting California’s offense in the process. Yet the Woods haven’t been able to get over the hump to win a PLL title, hence Pannell’s interest in finding a win-now situation.

California went 3-7 in 2024, missing the Cash App Playoffs and finishing seventh in the league. The Woods finished with the worst scoring differential in the league at -32 as their defense allowed a league-high 13.6 scores per game.

Stay tuned for additional coverage of Pannell and PLL free agency in the coming days and weeks.